Lake and Company - Issue29 WinterWell

WINTER WELL: SKIING, ICE FISHING, APRES + SKI GETAWAY ITINERARIES: PLAN YOUR NEXT BIG ADVENTURE BETWEEN THE HEADLINES: OLYMPIAN JOHN SHUSTER TALKS RESILIENCY YOUTH THESE DAYS: A DIVE INTO WHAT'S AHEAD YOU CAN GET INVOLVED: MAKE A DIFFERENCE ICE BARS AND IGLOOS: HIT THE HARD WATER

Amka

DISCOVERING WHAT PULLS US TO EXPLORE, CONNECT AND MAKE AN IMPACT

with polar explorer Lonnie Dupre

EXHIBITION:

A

NATION TAKES PLACE

Curated by Tia Simone-Gardner and Shana M. Griffin

On view through March 2, 2025

The Western formation of what has become the Americas was born through water.

A Nation Takes Place examines the ways seafaring imaginaries are connected to the lethal technologies of enslavement, colonialism, genocide, dispossession and extraction. This unique perspective invites us to rethink our understanding of these historical events and their water connections.

Celebrate the unknown, and those bold enough to explore it

All of us at Lake and Company, both the magazine and the shop, are passionately committed to celebrating the very best of lake culture and inspiring our communities to get out and explore the unknown.

thelakeandcompany.com

@thelakeandcompany

Frozen Falls

by Liina Lundin

“I believe we all need art and we all need nature. Both bring me joy and solace in this nutty world. Visiting the falls in winter has its own magic. This poster was part of a fundraiser that benefited local parks.”

— Liina

about the artist

Liina is a designer and artist living in Saint Paul, Minnesota. She attributes her love of art and her stubborn spirit to her artist-mother, hardworking father, and her upbringing on the “cold and gritty” Iron Range.

Lutsen

Gunflint Trail

Grand Portage

Amka

One with a friendly spirit

The polar Inuit people make it seem easy to live in a place that otherwise appears inhospitable to us. Their traditions have been passed on for thousands of years. By dressing in furs and by forming a symbiosis with their sled dogs, they managed to live off the land, completely in tune with their environment of ice and snow. These people are not run by a clock; they do things when the time seems right.

– Lonnie Dupre

With Polar Explorer Lonnie Dupre

It has been 21 years since Lonnie Dupre and John Hoelscher completed the first and only circumnavigation of Greenland, a 5,000-mile non-motorized journey completed by dog team and kayak.

In 2022, Dupre went back to Northwest Greenland to film the polar Inuit culture, traveling from village to village by dog team. Dupre reconnected with his past polar Inuit friends to find out how their culture has changed due to global warming over the last two decades.

The polar Inuit and their sled dogs are unsung heroes of countless Arctic expeditions. Their ingenuity and innovation through trial and error and creative ways of improvising have always amazed Dupre on past expeditions.

Dupre was frightened by how drastically global warming had affected the land and culture. Permafrost melting is undermining the foundations of houses. Ice caps and glaciers have receded so much that new maps are required to identify the distorted coastline. Sea ice in the Inglefield Fjord that was once 7 feet thick in mid-winter is now 18 inches. At this current rate of melting, the fjord will be ice free in 7 to 10 years. In the mountainous and ice cap terrain, the Inuit rely on sea ice to travel between villages and for hunting. Once gone, the Inuit will become landlocked, held prisoners in their own villages unable to travel for eight months out of the year.

“Amka” is the Inuktun word for “one with a friendly spirit.” This 40-minute film dives into the inner thoughts of the Inuit hunters and polar explorers amidst change: their passions, the inseparability with their sled dogs, the fragility of Greenland, and the humble people who carved out special lives in a land of snow and ice.

Through this documentary, we aim to introduce people to this little-known place of beauty called Greenland and its culture and make it dear in others’ hearts too.

FOLLOW THE FILM TOUR

The Amka film was produced by Lonnie Dupre and directed and filmed by Eva Capozzola, with additional cinematography by Josefin Kuschela.

Supported by Rolex as part of its Perpetual Planet Initiative.

For more information and updates: LonnieDupre.com, kendalmountainfestival.com

“IN THE MOUNTAINOUS AND ICE CAP TERRAIN, THE INUIT RELY ON SEA ICE TO TRAVEL BETWEEN VILLAGES AND FOR HUNTING.”

WINTERGREEN NORTHERN WEAR

YOU + NATURE

A growing chorus of scientists and researchers agree: Time spent in nature makes us happier, healthier and less stressed. It increases creativity and lowers the risk of heart attack. It even makes us nicer, more empathetic humans, with more meaningful relationships and increased community involvement.

Evidence shows that being regularly immersed in a natural setting, like a park, wetland or woodlot, reduces blood pressure, anxiety and stress levels and boosts immunity. Simply having a view of nature leads to faster patient recovery times in hospitals, higher job satisfaction and increased concentration in office workers. Outdoor exercise increases energy levels and reduces anger, depression and obesity.

For children, studies show that time outdoors, especially unstructured time in more natural settings, can increase curiosity, creativity and problem-solving ability. It also improves their physical fitness and coordination and reduces symptoms associated with attention-deficit disorder. It can even reduce the likelihood of needing glasses for near-sightedness.

Studies also demonstrate that nature can have profound effects on entire neighborhoods or communities by improving the job and life satisfaction of residents and aiding community cohesion and identity. It can even reduce violence and bridge the gap in health between high- and low-income communities.

JOIN THE 30×30 CHALLENGE!

Add a daily dose of nature to your routine.

Most of us spend too much time in front of screens and too little time outdoors. It’s time to fall (back) in love with nature! The David Suzuki Foundation challenges you to spend 30 minutes a day in nature for 30 days to kick-start a nature habit that lasts all year-round.

Our goal is simple: to reconnect human beings with nature for the sake of their health and mental well-being.

Inspired by David Suzuki’s 30 x 30, we challenge our readers to get outside in our most beautiful season here in northern Minnesota.

30 x 30 Nature Challenge

30 minutes outside for 30 days

HERE ARE SOME TIPS:

• Choose YOUR 30 days. Any activity counts; walk the dog, take your kids sledding, engage in your favorite winter sport ... the possibilities are endless!

• Tell a friend or pick a partner to hold you accountable.

• Grab a camera and share your success with us at #lakeandco30x30.

• Cheer on your fellow challenge participants by liking and commenting on their photos AND ... challenge others!

“Winter forms our character and brings out our best.”

—Tom Allen

Even to those who have grown up in the north, winter can seem more extreme than elsewhere on the planet, and can certainly feel like it lasts much longer. It takes a certain adjustment and, simply put, it is not for the weak. Often with light being scarce and fading early, there is a sense of a slowdown that creeps in. Indeed, casual conversation seems always to veer toward the weather, and each snowfall turns the landscape into a snow globe and land of opportunity, or so we would like to say. By February there is a sort of frenetic cabin fever, and we turn our adoration more toward escapism. At times we hear sarcasm aimed at the cold and endless snow — “Is winter ever going to end?” — well into April. It’s all a process and ... we love it!

Though embracing winter takes a bit of creative inspiration, it’s what we live for — the seasons, and “wintering well,” is a practice. Familiarity can breed contempt, but here we are celebrating those who consciously decide to take a positive attitude toward winter and see the magic throughout the season.

Our cover story with Lonnie Dupre exudes the power of wonderment and connection with traveling by dog sled, depending on community and the importance of preservation. Another inspiring story is that of goldmedal Olympian John Shuster and his mindset toward competing and absolute resilience. Something that I believe is innate to anyone who leans into the unknown and the almost unbearable is that they experience the lows to appreciate the highs. Any definition of resilience alludes to what we have all needed to do at some point in our life: recover quickly from difficulties, to snap back after being bent, stretched or pressed. We know that we need to adapt, shift, learn and continue to grow every day.

You’ll also find us encouraging you to relish the moments you have with friends, family and nature this season. For that, we’ve highlighted a couple hyggethemed getaway itineraries to make it easy to book that trip and take it all in.

“Hygge”:  creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people

Winter comes but once a year and there is no other season like it. So take a breath, make a plan and have a great new year.

It’s my privilege to be able to promote and share our state with the world, to be a representative of our home and culture, and to showcase its wonders and authenticity. This is our community, where we celebrate the stories of people bold enough to explore and do exceptional things. We invite you to be a part of it.

MINNESOTA STORE LOCATIONS

GRAND RAPIDS (FLAGSHIP)

CROSBY STILLWATER

PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

DIGITAL MARKETING

COPY EDITOR AND PROOFREADER

MEDIA + PHOTOGRAPHY

DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS

SALES AND RETAIL

CONTENT MANAGER

BRAND BUILDER

COVER IMAGE

CONTRIBUTORS

EDITORIAL + BUSINESS OFFICE

ADVERTISE

STOCKIST

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Megan Kellin — megan@thelakeandco.com

Jessie Steigauf — jessie@thelakeandco.com

Alli Aston — alli@thelakeandco.com

Anne Kelley Conklin

Justin Graddy — hello@thelakeandco.com

Jessica Tok — jessica@thelakeandco.com

Tim Olson

Thea Rendon — hello@thelakeandco.com

Emily Hendricks

Pascale Marceau (Featuring Polar Explorer Lonnie Dupre)

Lonnie Dupre, Ashley Bella, Nathan Carlson, Teddy Grant, Chris Pascone, Cheryl Fosdick, Beth Probst, Joe Henry, Leo Wilenius, Thea Rendon, Kaiya Grossman, Jack Allen Graddy, Taylor O’Shea, Alyssa Whetstone, Joshua Neumann, Justin Graddy, Alli Aston, Liina Lundin, John Shuster, Kasey James, John Sugimura, Asha Belk

10 NW 3rd St., Grand Rapids, MN 55744

For a media kit, email: hello@thelakeandco.com

To sell in your retail store, email hello@thelakeandco.com

thelakeandcompany.com (subscribe) hello@thelakeandco.com

Megan Kellin

In Good Company,

FOUNDER

CONTRIBUTORS THE INCREDIBLE PEOPLE BEHIND THIS ISSUE

Born and raised on a Minnesota country farm, Lonnie Dupre is descended on his mother’s side from Jacques Cartier, the French explorer and founder of Quebec. Lonnie lives in Grand Marais, Minnesota, enjoying timber framing and designing small cabins. When not exploring polar regions, he spends his free time ice climbing, back-country skiing and canoeing in the Quetico and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness on the Minnesota/Canadian border.

Among his many accomplishments, Lonnie is the first and only person to circumnavigate Greenland, a 5,000mile, all non-motorized journey by kayak and dog team. In 2005, he received National Geographic’s Best of Adventure award; in 2015, he earned Outside Magazine's #3 Most Badass Adventurer; and in 2019, he was named a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, to name a few.

@lonniedupre | lonniedupre.com

Ashley Bella is an astrologer and certified sound healer based in Minnesota. Through astrology and sound healing, she guides clients in finding inner peace and personal growth by aligning them with their birth chart. Her mission is to empower individuals to embrace their uniqueness, navigate life’s challenges and evolve. Combining practical steps with a deep sense of surrender, Ashley helps create space for personal transformation, believing that astrology can illuminate the path to self-discovery and inner peace.

@ashleybellastrology | ashleybellastrology.com

Born and raised in Duluth, Minnesota, and now residing in Minneapolis for nearly 20 years, Nathan Carlson has a BS degree in marketing and over 15 years of experience in financial services. He is certified by the International Coaching Federation as of 2022. As a certified professional coach, he’s passionate about helping individuals and organizations achieve their personal and professional goals. “I firmly believe our mindset and the quality of our thoughts dictate our success in all areas of life.”

@nathancarlson2014 | nacconsults.com

Alyssa Whetstone is a Minnesota-based artist and watercolor instructor passionate about helping others discover their creativity. Through her online courses and unique watercolor workbooks, Alyssa teaches the joy of painting in an approachable and inspiring way. Her popular course Creating Your Watercolor Habit encourages students to build confidence while integrating art into their daily lives. Alyssa’s work is designed to be accessible for all skill levels.

@alyssawhetstoneart | alyssawhetstoneart.com

LONNIE DUPRE

ASHLEY BELLA

NATHAN CARLSON

ALYSSA WHETSTONE

Bring the Lake to you

All of us at Lake and Company are passionately committed to celebrating the very best of lake culture and inspiring out communities to get out and explore the unknown.

OUR AUDIENCE IS AWESOME

Our readers are a uent and educated residents who appreciate the lifestyle and culture of the north. Lake and Company magazine is a woman-owned, award-winning, independent magazine and shop with a Midwest reach.

WE PROMOTE IDEAS AND CONVERSATIONS THAT ELEVATE OUR COMMUNITIES

Join our community of like-minded individuals. Well-traveled risk takers. Adventure seekers. Out-of-the-box thinkers. Innovators. Entrepreneurs. The networking and collaboration opportunities are all part of the package.

CELEBRATE THE UNKNOWN

Embrace the spirit of adventure and entrepreneurship by joining the Lake and Company family and owning your own retail store or magazine. Dive into a rewarding business opportunity that aligns with your passion for nature.

TRUSTED CONTENT THAT INSPIRES

We provide stories of people doing exceptional things that help support adventure, innovation, conservation and community. FIND US AT

CONTRIBUTORS THE INCREDIBLE PEOPLE BEHIND THIS ISSUE

CHERYL FOSDICK

Cheryl Fosdick, principal of CF Design, began her design career in the Twin Cities. Cheryl concentrates on new residential projects and remodeling, with over 100 built and “in progress” works throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. Her work is particularly attentive to energy and spatial efficiency, as well as material clarity, simplicity, and sympathy with the building site and context.

Prior to her current practice, she was co-principal and owner of Salmela Fosdick, Ltd. Their second project for the State of Minnesota was the Gooseberry Falls Visitor Center, which was an American Institute of Architects (AIA) Honor Award winner. That project recalled formal historic precedent and modern sensibilities, and incorporated extensive use of recycled, locally sourced materials in an open and functional plan. Cheryl has earned two other AIA Minnesota Honor Awards.

@cfdesignltd | cfdesignltd.com

Chris Pascone is a Minnesota outdoorsperson who lives in Duluth with his wife and three daughters. He went to Macalester College in St. Paul and now teaches in the School District of Superior (WI) and at Northwood Technical College. His passions are exploring the outdoors with his family and urban farming. He prioritizes low-tech adventures with a paddle, skis or fishing equipment.

@Chris Pascone

JOE HENRY

Joe Henry, executive director of Lake of the Woods Tourism, was named Tourism Professional of the Year for his work on behalf of the Minnesota tourism industry. In addition to serving on local industry boards and commissions, including the Minnesota Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus and the Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers, Joe has brought major global events to Minnesota and created key alliances with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Canada and the province of Ontario. Joe is constantly working with media outlets, municipalities, economic development groups, and other civic, public and private organizations to spotlight Minnesota tourism. lakeofthewoodsmn.com

Liina Lundin is a designer and artist based in St. Paul, Minnesota. She credits her passion for art and her tenacious spirit to her artist mother and hardworking father and to her upbringing on the “cold and gritty” Iron Range. Liina owns and operates a small business that specializes in creating unique branding for other small businesses. @liinaco | liinalundin.com

LIINA LUNDIN

CHRIS PASCONE

CONTRIBUTORS THE INCREDIBLE PEOPLE BEHIND THIS ISSUE

Beth Probst starts most days with an almond milk maple latte and a good book. She’s an Emmy Award–winning journalist who traded the rat race for rural lake life in a stoplight-free county where she works as a marketing and grants director for a regional community health center. She believes in storytelling as a way to connect people to information that can transform their lives and is the author of two books: Now What? Navigating Life After Loss and It Could Be Worse: A Girlfriend’s Guide for Runners Who Detest Running

@bethprobst | bethprobst.com

Leo is retired from a career in the electric industry and resides in the heart of Northern Minnesota, which serves as backdrop for many of his writings. He confesses to spending a good deal of time seeking small adventures, writing on most any topic and simply watching the world go by while in a boat, on a dock or in a forest. He has written three books — She Won’t Mow the Daisies, The Cabin Experience and Life Over Easy, which are available at Lake and Company.

John Shuster, a curler from Duluth, Minnesota, is a five-time Olympian who led Team USA to its first Olympic gold in curling at the 2018 Winter Games. He also earned a bronze medal at the 2006 Olympics and has competed in 11 World Curling Championships. Shuster’s other accomplishments include a gold medal at the 2007 World University Winter Games and multiple U.S. and Minnesota junior titles. He is married to Sara Shuster and has two children. Off the ice, he enjoys fishing, hunting, golfing, cooking, and fantasy football.

@shoostie

A passionate “take-a-chance” entrepreneur, business owner, kindness advocate, and mother, Kasey brings a strong background in creativity and marketing to everything she does. A self-taught graphic and website designer, she has held a variety of job titles throughout her career. In 2015, Kasey purchased Shirts Plus, a screen printing and embroidery shop in Aitkin, MN. Knowing that running a business comes with both highs and lows, she founded Kindness is Cool (KIC) as a way to promote the greatest act of kindness: self-care. Through the process of building this initiative and engaging in deep self-reflection, her mission evolved. This journey led her to launch a clothing brand dedicated to spreading kindness. Kasey approaches every aspect of her life with creativity and compassion. She firmly believes in taking bold chances and putting herself out there. After all, the coolest things she’s ever accomplished came from daring to take a chance.

kindnessiscool.com | @KICMerch

BETH PROBST

LEO WILENIUS

JOHN SHUSTER

KASEY JAMES

CONTRIBUTORS THE INCREDIBLE PEOPLE BEHIND THIS ISSUE

Teddy Grant is a Midwest-born romantic idealist whose words are largely inspired by real-life adventures during his travels around the United States. Much of his literary perspective grows from a constant curiosity and always “coming of age.” When not writing, Teddy always prefers to be moving, preferably just above the waterline.

Joshua Neumann went from being in real estate to founding of Kind Lips. He is on a mission to end bullying and teach the world to speak through "kind lips." Kind Lips has been featured on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and in , Forbes and Reader’s Digest, just to name a few. The company has an incredible mission donating 20% of its profits to anti-bullying organizations. Speaking kindly to one another and the power of our words are themes throughout this conversation.

@joshuaneumann | kindlips.com

Thea Rendon is an educator, aspiring school administrator, and passionate advocate for children and schools. Born in Two Harbors, MN, and raised in Grand Rapids, MN, Thea earned her degree in Mass Communications from North Dakota State University. After living in Mexico, where she met and married her husband, Sergio, she returned to Grand Rapids in 2011. Together, they have four daughters. With over 12 years of experience in education, Thea is dedicated to fostering a culture of collaboration, trust, and equity in schools. As a leader, she is committed to empowering others and creating a shared vision for the future. When she's not teaching or leading, Thea enjoys traveling, spending time on the lake, supporting her daughters in their sports, and relaxing with her family.

Together we are a community. We are a movement. We are Lake and Company. Join us! Stop in to one of our stores, subscribe to our magazine or, better yet, share your story with us.

JOIN OUR PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP

Submit your story!

TEDDY GRANT

JOSHUA NEUMANN

THEA RENDON

Winter State of Mind

By: NATHAN CARLSON

I USED TO BE THE FURTHEST THING FROM A WINTER PERSON. THEN A FEW YEARS AGO, LIFE CHANGED.

It’s a fact that those who grew up with lake-effect snow are built differently. Born and raised in Duluth, I am one of them, and it may be a coincidence, but my resilience gained from Duluth winters has served me well. You get dumped on and you find a way to dig yourself out and carry on. I count myself among the survivors of the Halloween snowstorm of 1991. I count Duluth as a survivor of my winter driving. We have a good relationship now that I am not living there. The people born, raised and living in the Duluth area are special; you have to be. They have seen some shit.

Living in Minnesota, we have beautiful springs, summers and falls (give or take some occasional strange weather). Then there is winter … People living in northern climates are in two buckets: those who embrace winter, and those who take a hard pass, preferring to hibernate until spring. The only things to seemingly bring the two groups together are the holidays and hockey.

I used to be the furthest thing from a winter person. Then a few years ago, life changed. I now require fresh air, outdoor activity, authentic connection and community. I am that person who jumps in lakes and frolics in the snow all winter long. It makes me feel more alive.

I hope this article makes you curious about trying new things … perhaps a feeling that winter is a time to put the puzzle pieces of your life together or at least lay them out on the card table you have set up in the “spare room.”

As summer and autumn fly by in all their Minnesota glory, the leaves change color, then fall onto the streets, having fulfilled their duty. We feel the days get shorter as the chatter begins. What did the Old Farmer’s Almanac predict? What do meteorologists say? What does my sister’s roommate’s cousin down the street think?

Does trying to predict the severity of winter matter? No. Winter is a state of mind.

In Minnesota, we have a touch of weather PTSD. Every aggressive winter storm steals a piece of our soul. So please excuse us if we get a bit jumpy and spend too much time talking about the weather.

Is it possible to come out of winter a better version of yourself? Yes.

Or a version of yourself that enjoys winter more? Yes.

All you need to do is make yourself a winter survival plan. Yes, I said SURVIVAL. OK, maybe it’s not that serious. These days I embrace winter, and trust me when I say I dreaded winter for most of my life. I thought Duluth destroyed any chance of my ever enjoying winter. I was wrong!

Here are some tips and suggestions.

• Go outside any chance you get and walk. It will improve your mood. Get obsessed with your step count. For those who don’t like winter, it’s a huge middle finger to Mother Nature; the ultimate “you can’t slow me down” vibe.

• Make lists … of everything: home-related goals, professional, personal, whatever moves you. Divided into subcategories, please and thank you.

• Find an outdoor community. This is where I may lose some of you. Think about the local sauna club, run/ walk group, snowshoeing, skiing, etc. Connection and community are essential to our success as human beings in every season of life.

• Dig deep: Take a look inside and pick something uncomfortable. Get curious about the dark corners of yourself you keep meaning to explore. This is where growth happens. You are worth it.

• Make a list of the people you think about way too much, considering you don’t talk. The people you mean to reach out to and know it would make their day. They are waiting to hear from you.

• I initially wrote “reach out to someone you don’t think wants to hear from you” as a bullet point. The thought of this task made me squirm around in my chair. Above all, you do you.

It’s simple. Remember how curious we were as children? That wasn’t supposed to stop. The more curious we are, the more we learn and the more we grow.

Take my suggestions with a flake of snow and remember we are all unique individuals. It all starts with getting curious.

Because it’s worth saying again that winter is a state of mind. I want to feel like I am gaining momentum toward having such a strong sense of inner peace that it doesn’t matter what season it is.

It also doesn’t hurt to have a pre-planned trip to Florida ready in the event your mental state and/or the height of the snowbanks has become unmanageable. Minnesotans love Florida!

However you choose to approach winter, IT IS TIME. Get out the winter gear, sharpen those shovels, fill up the snowblower and do whatever you need to do. Because ready or not, she’s coming!

Good luck to all.

MAY THE WEATHER PATTERNS BE IN OUR FAVOR

FULL CIRCLE

By: TIM OLSON

PLAY OUTDOORS

FLORENCE X NOCS FIELD TUBE Built to go everywhere you do.

CARDIFF CRANE All-mountain freestyle skis and snowboards.

// APRÈS-SKI

WHETHER YOU ARE A PRO OR A BEGINNER, TRAVELING WITH FRIENDS OR FAMILY, SKI RESORTS IN MINNESOTA HAVE SOMETHING FOR YOU.

Minnesota boasts one of the longest downhill skiing seasons in the country, which makes the area attractive for folks planning winter vacations. Coupled with Minnesota’s rich forests and 10,000 lakes, downhill skiing is a great way to take in the northern wilderness.

And after a day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than connecting with friends to share stories. The après-ski scene is discreet but lively for slopeside — from cozy hearths to speakeasies, we’re here to recognize the hills and our top spots!

A BRIEF HISTORY

Believe it or not, après-ski has been around long before you and me. Certainly before shotskis and PBR’s.

Here’s a brief history of après-ski:

• Celebratory food and drink after a day of skiing first became a custom in Norway in the late 19th century, a tradition that quickly moved from individual homes to the first-ever ski clubs.

• The tradition made its way from Norway to the French Alps, where small villages like Chamonix began establishing the first ski hotels. The custom was adopted and given the french name “après-ski,” a way to celebrate surviving another day in the cold and rugged Alps.

• The act of après-ski spread to Austria and Switzerland and was given the German name “gemütlichkeit,” which roughly translates to “a good time was had by all.” Fortunately for all of us non-German speakers, the term après-ski assumes gemütlichkeit is being had by all, and we can stick with the easier-to-say and more encompassing term “après-ski.”

• Americans discovered après-ski in the early 20th century, and like all great worldwide traditions, adopted it and brought it back to the United States. The cultural appropriation started with ski clubs in New England.

• Après-ski spread west to the first ski clubs of Donner Pass and Yosemite in California, Mount Rainier in Washington, and eventually to the West’s first destination ski town of Sun Valley, Idaho, in 1936.

• Après-ski culture spread to the old mining towns of the West, places like Breckenridge, Aspen and Alta, Utah. Authentic mining towns of the Wild West were the perfect place to adopt the après-ski culture. This period of après-ski industry growth and nationwide appeal is now considered the Golden Age of Après-ski.

• The '60s and '70s brought sex, drugs, rock-androll, Hollywood starlets, callous businessmen, mega-resorts, non-skier lodge bunnies and other opportunists dabbling in the original American après-ski culture.

• Today’s après-ski scene has slowly morphed into a diverse melting pot of ski cultures. And instead of wine and cheese, we’re serving light beers, dark beers, Mexican beers, french fries, veggie burgers and nachos.

APRÈS + SKI GUIDE

More than just hitting the slopes

CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITE STOPS ALONG THE WAY!

WE LOVE HEARING FROM YOU! TELL US YOUR TOP SKI SPOTS:

Spirit mountain

Duluth, MN

Not too far from Spirit Mountain you’ll find this hot spot among locals and visitors. With some of the best brews around, Canal Park Brewing Company makes for a memorable experience. With amazing views of Lake Superior and a menu full of unique flavor combinations, beer might even be an afterthought!

Canal Park Brewing Company

MOUNT ITASCA

Grand Rapids, MN

The Mount Itasca Winter Sports Center is a beautiful ski center located just minutes from Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Hotel Rapids Bar and Bistro has a yurt to cozy up in after a day on the hills, ski jumps or tube hill.

Hotel Rapids Bar and Bistro

POWDER RIDGE

Kimball, MN

LUTSEN MOUNTAIN

Lutsen, MN

Lutsen Mountain — the Upper Midwest’s biggest ski area — has plenty of awesome après-ski options. Made up of Eagle, Ullr, Mystery and Moose Mountains, there is a wide range of runs for all skill levels, including adaptive skiing and equipment. They’ve recently inserted a new gondola and high-speed chair lifts that rival equipment at Colorado resorts.

MONT DU LAC

Superior, WI

GIANTS Ridge

Biwabik, MN

Giants Ridge, on the Iron Range, is a laid-back ski area in the great Northwoods of Minnesota. After leaving all you had on the slopes, head over to the resort’s best après bar: The Burnt Onion. Great food, a fully stocked bar, a fireplace and live music on the weekends make The Burnt Onion a perfect place to rest your tired legs.

The Burnt Onion

ANDES TOWER HILLS

DETROIT MOUNTAIN

Detroit Lakes, MN

DM’s music scene and venue are reason alone to book the trip. Check out Music on the Mountain at DetroitMountain.com for a music and event schedule. You won’t be disappointed.

Mount Ski Gull

Nisswa, MN

If you’ve been shredding Mount Ski Gull in the Brainerd Lakes area, the best nearby après scene is going to be at Zorbaz, just a little way up the shore of Gull Lake from the ski area. Zorbaz is a perennial party favorite in Minnesota’s lake country, and winter doesn’t slow down the drinking, camaraderie and music one bit.

Zorbaz

AFTON ALPS

Hasting, MN

Afton Alps is the largest ski area that is technically within the Twin Cities metro. If you’ve made the trip to Afton, you’ll find plenty of après right on site. Paul’s has a big double fireplace, a full kitchen and a full bar. On select weekends, the Cantina is open for margaritas and tacos. Live music and special events occur throughout the season.

Paul’s

Wild Mountain

Taylors Falls, MN

If you’ve been shredding for hours at Wild Mountain in the St. Croix River Valley, you’ve found the place where you can mingle, eat, drink and listen to some live music.

Welch Village

Welch, MN

Spiral Brewery, named after the historic Spiral Bridge, is truly something special. With its stylish urban interior, top-notch craft beer and knowledgeable staff, you’re in the best.

Sip your way through the beer list — you’ll find some unique flavors in their standard and seasonal brews on tap.

Spiral Brewery

Hill

Burnsville, MN

Buck Hill is where Lindsey Vonn got her start. If you’re in the area, make sure to take advantage of the awesome après scene at the Black Diamond Restaurant & Bar. The Black Diamond music series ensures that you’re having as much fun in the chalet as you were on the hill. The bar and your fellow downhill enthusiasts take care of the rest.

Black Diamond Restaurant & Bar

Coffee Mill Ski area

Wabasha, MN

In Southeast Minnesota, you’ll find plenty of vertical in the bowl of Coffee Mill Ski Area, but you’ll find the best aprés a few blocks from the foot of the runs at the historic Anderson House Hotel and its newly reopened speakeasy, Lost Dutchman, in beautiful downtown Wabasha. The welcoming pub atmosphere and friendly people will help warm your soul after an afternoon on the hill.

Lost Dutchman

MOUNT KATO

Mankato, MN

Buck

IT ALL STARTED ON A SNOWY DAY IN THE COLORADO ROCKIES...

Wildcoat founder Carlo DiMeo has always enjoyed the social side of skiing.

Sure there's truth to 'no friends on a powder day', but for your average day of ripping groomers and pounding bumps — a day on the mountain is always best spent with friends.

And to Carlo, what better way to make friends (and have your friends find you) than rocking a seriously silly ski coat.

Enter the first, unofficial Wildcoat.

No pockets, no zipper, and about as warm as a standard hoodie — Carlo's first bear coat was a far cry from a legit ski coat. But dammit if he didn't wear it every single ski day for 3 straight seasons.

10,000 high-fives, 690 pictures, and about as many "where the hell did you get that?"s later... We knew we needed to make a real, winter-ready version of the OG bear coat.

So in the Spring of 2020 we got to work planning, designing, and testing our first line of Wildcoats — ultimately launching our first two styles the following spring, the Grizzly & the Polar.

We knew that aside from looking furocious, our coats also needed to perform wildly well in order to be worn all season long. In addition to being warmer than a real bear, all Wildcoats have 7 pockets, detachable hoods, sleeves, and clawed mittens, and are fully adjustable to fit perfectly over full ski gear or comfortably at the après.

Four seasons (and countless ski days) later, we're up to 8 styles, 4 iterations with dozens of upgrades, and hundreds of resounding 5-star reviews.

We're bringing back the silly side of snow sports one coat at a time, and we're only just getting started! Follow along the Wildcoat journey at Wildcoat.com

A DIFFERENT

Chester Bowl Ski Area SKI CULTURE

By: CHRIS PASCONE

Skiing is culture. It’s a part of our heart and soul as northerners. And let me tell you, if skiing is your vibe, and you’re a giving person, the ultimate satisfaction is working as a chairlift operator. See, you’re transporting 960 people an hour up a ski hill in order for them to have the ride of their life back down, time after time. They’re laughing, smiling, cooing like birds, singing like rock stars as they bomb down the hill. The snowy terrain (together with your heavy machinery) transports skiers, snowboarders and snowskaters to a place outside of time. Trust me, I know — I’m a liftie myself. I work bumping chairs at a magical ski area called Chester Bowl, nestled atop Duluth’s Central Hillside neighborhood. Here’s why you should come check out Chester’s unique ski culture.

Chester Bowl is an urban ski hill. It’s located a few blocks from the University of Minnesota Duluth and the College of St. Scholastica. College students work here every winter to earn some cash for their own ski habit. Nobody would call the hill extreme (but come check out the Freestyle Fridays events if you’re into terrain park tricks!). Rather, “The Bowl” (so called for its hollowed-out hillside location) is a building block to bigger ski adventures to come. Local kids trek to the hill from the surrounding neighborhoods, and moms and dads drop off groups of kiddos for a day of pure freedom and exuberance. Kids get to be themselves in an oasis from the adult world. Of course, the parents come and get all happy on their skis too, not to miss out! This is community skiing at its finest.

So what’s really happening here? Chester is a tiny ski hill by any standard. It’s got 175 feet of vertical drop (like being a one-story bungalow among midtown-Manhattan skyscrapers, as far as ski hills go). The double chairlift is, let’s say, “vintage” (built in 1974!) and there’s only one run back down (a few side routes do provide a bit of variety in deep-snow years). Why is this place even a thing?

Humble in stature, Chester Bowl is radically different from all those fancy resorts you’ve heard of out west or east. The Bowl is a place that espouses ultra-inclusivity for people of all incomes, races, genders and ages. Unlike so many other ski areas across the country, Chester is affordable and accessible to all. All skiers and snowboarders (snowskates are also available for daily rental!) are required to follow “Peace in the Parks” principles: “At Chester Bowl, we believe that everyone has the right to participate in our programs in a safe, peaceful, caring environment where each person is respected.” This is a place for regular people, and that’s the beauty of it. Stigma got lost and couldn’t find its way to Chester.

The Bowl is the ultimate equalizer that gets people of all types to love skiing. Anybody can learn to ski here. Adults, 2-year-olds, teenagers — they’re all out learning pizza and french fries (ski lingo — come find out what it means). And lessons are free for season pass holders. If you’ve always thought you couldn’t learn to ski, leave your inhibitions at home, because The Bowl’s friendly ski instructors will change your mind. The Chester community is nonjudgmental — everyone rallies for the common good here.

So where does this culture come from? Chester is like an alternative world, where people give back. With only three full-time employees, many of Chester Bowl’s operations, like ski fittings, concession stands and ski races for kids, are fulfilled by volunteers. According to the hill’s social media: “Chester Bowl can exist only because of our culture of volunteerism — we documented over 5,500 hours of volunteer time last year!” Every family with a season pass commits to volunteering on the hill over the winter.

This is a place for regular people, and that’s the beauty of it. Stigma got lost and couldn’t find its way to Chester.

Furthermore, The Bowl owns over 1,000 pairs of skis, snowboards, boots, bindings and helmets that folks rent starting in November, then return in late April (for only $95 per person). That’s right — the skis are yours for six months. Chester takes care of maintenance, fittings, etc., so beginners get a turnkey ski setup. Once you’re equipped, the hill is yours three nights a week (Monday, Thursday and Friday from 3:30 to 9:00 p.m.) and on weekends (from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

So how does a ski hill survive selling day passes for $10 for children and just $15 for adults? The Chester Bowl Improvement Club, which runs both the ski hill and summer day camps in Duluth’s Chester Park, is a not-for-profit organization. All income is used only to support operations and staff. Prices are kept ridiculously low so that money is NOT (gasp!) what skiing is all about.

Of course, this non-materialistic culture means that facilities lag behind other ski resorts. But the Chester Bowl Improvement Club is doing something about it. The “Growing Up Chester” capital campaign is raising the funds needed to expand and completely renovate the Thom Storm Chalet, preserving Chester’s magic for generations to come. The Chalet is “the heart of Chester Bowl, where Duluth’s love of the outdoors has started for generations,” says the campaign’s website (growingupchester.org).

After raising $950,000 from private community donors alone over the last four years, the city of Duluth and Chester Bowl were recommended this past August for $2,312,000 in funding from the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources, known as LCCMR, for their project to expand and renovate the Thom Storm Chalet. Official legislative approval of the recommendations is expected during the 2025 legislative session, and LCCMR funds will be available in July 2025. Look for a newly renovated chalet come the 2026 alpine season.

Chester Bowl is one of the most unique ski programs in the country. And it’s right here in Duluth, Minnesota. If you want to bring your kiddos up in a traditional, timeless, community-driven ski culture, we’ll “ski you” there.

Slopes

Spirit Mountain is a winter playground for any adventure enthusiast, boasting the second-largest vertical drop in the Midwest. Come build your own snowy adventure with endless experiences — like skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and fat-tire biking — all while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Superior.

TERRAIN PARK

This top-to-bottom park is known far and wide for having the best jump line and some of the most creative and well-set jibs to make it one of the best parks in the Midwest. Enjoy fourplus separate freestyle terrain areas located throughout the ski area. This park has received national accolades and comparisons with many of the premier terrain parks in the industry!

NORDIC CENTER

Enjoy two unique locations for Nordic skiing. The Upper Spirit Mountain Nordic Center offers beautifully wooded crosscountry ski trails, double-tracked, and a skate lane, plus the new Grand Avenue Nordic Center trails are complete with snowmaking and world-class grooming.

SNOW

TUBING

Experience the thrill of sliding down a snowy run and then effortlessly riding back to the top of the hill on a tubing lift. This perfect family activity is for anyone ages 3 and above. Glow Tubing is also offered on Friday and Saturday nights.

BRING IT HOME

By: CHERYL FOSDICK

When I was not yet 20, I pierced the boundless skin over all things possible and entered the field of architectural design. In truth, I was captivated by the storytelling and the cathartic scribbling and circling required to form buildings from words and perceptions. I have come to realize that there is magic in architecture when it is a consequence of a devotion to the telling of tales by all the players. In the delighted, mesmerized, actuated, provoked reasoning that is involved in the design process from the moment senses point toward specific land and individuals, a tale begins to spin. When the circumstances of adequate time, ample respite, good communication and fair compensation come together, the design process becomes a shared meditation. Ideally, intellects and emotions combine to create a flawless architecture ... a perfect trek to the mountaintop. Five years is all it took to ruin that paradigm.

Inflation, Amazon, social isolation and indifference toward family legacy have changed my calling in the last five years. The role of poetics and intuition in built work, so essential to its delight and magic, took a back seat to putting one inclined foot in front of the other, as quickly as possible ... a march seeming more and more like work.

Three years ago, after losing one studio to fire and another to developers, I determined that CF design and I, who are basically one and the same, needed to adapt to the bedlam of architectural design, or go crazy. This suggested a change in the office environment where, even for a stolen moment, we could stir more creative and lyrical mindsets, while simultaneously driving 80 in a 30 mph zone.

Enter the Whirling Dervish.

“I’m Dancing as Fast as I Can” seemed to be every colleague’s assertion. Unlike Barbara Gordon’s famous book and movie by the same title, I doubt they all suffered from a Valium addiction, though it would be understandable in these times.

One friend self-identified as a whirling dervish. A whirling dervish. I like words, and these two words were something to explore. The whirling dervish seemed a metaphor for my career. The similarities to my practice spoke to me. In learning of the dervish’s devotional and meditative priorities and practices, I found a way to nurture and take pleasure in the scrambled whirligig I was becoming and, yes, my workplace became someplace special.

Whirling dervishes believe in a magical and rational thread of Islam. They seek to understand the significance of actions and effects by engaging in unconstrained imaginings, rather than delineating restrictions. They do all this by rapidly spinning around an axis — often for hours — using their sense of balance and wonder to hinder vertigo. When they stop, they stand in groups for minutes to salvage their balance ... and then begin to whirl again. There is joie de vivre in the constant movement and the momentary calm, taken together.

My architectural firm, CF Design, is now coupled with my serene and public lighting showroom, LUMstudio. I also feature the work of regional artists. A local yoga studio teaches classes in my office. I market and showcase furnishings from Portugal, rooted in Danish modern form and Portuguese craft, both dear to me. My staff and I each have our own collections of tabletops and books … our own vessels in a sea of wide wood floors, and we are enfolded in beautiful materials and visitors. We are all juggling and pursuing design work in this frenetic world, but inspired context provides renewed balance due to the simple reversal of circumstance discovered in two words.

BETWEEN HEADLINES THE

By: JOHN SHUSTER

Living the life as the face of anything can sometimes be an intense experience. When that face is very public, such as the head of a company, the president of a local organization or maybe the most recognizable name in the sport of curling in your country, it can be overwhelming. Over the past six years, I feel like I have found the recipe to remaining not only successful but also excited about that role in many things, both on and off the ice.

As a northerner, I get asked many times, “How do you survive those winters?” That answer for me has always been “curling.” It’s funny, but I think my answer to that question has also helped me thrive in my career. Curling is something that many of us do up here not only because we love it but also because it gives us something to look forward to weekly in those sometimes challenging deep-winter months. When a person can have something to look forward to every week, whether it be a sport, a book club, a standing coffee date, a bible study group or something as simple as Sunday mass, it helps us move time forward in a way that can make those bone-chilling cold temperatures and heavy snowfalls seem somehow shorter and more tolerable. It helps move us chronologically closer to the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. This mindset for me has transformed the time frame from my first Olympics in 2006 to present day to seeming like the blink of an eye. Do not get me wrong; I have had more unbelievably fulfilling days and lots of memories in that span to last a lifetime. Not all of those memories, however, are the good kind.

Let’s take a step back to 2010. Following our team’s bronze medal–winning performance at the 2006 Winter Olympics, I set off on a journey to become an Olympic champion. I began by leaving the team I achieved that very medal with. It started by taking a leap into being the Skip, or captain, on my own, new team. That year, I led that new team to a World University Games gold medal. The next two seasons had their ups and downs and a few different team lineups, but in 2009 our team won the Olympic Trials and the right to represent the USA at the upcoming 2010 Olympics.

Feeling like I had it all under control, and recognizing I was where I had dreamt and planned to be on my path to becoming an Olympic Champion, I found the 2010 Olympics to be the humbling experience that many hot, fresh 20-something professionals often have in many walks of life: ultimate failure. Being the arena that the Olympics are, however, my humbling was very public. It was public to the point that, following our last-place finish, many keyboard warriors felt it necessary to type and post some of the most gruesome things online. From 2010 until 2018, if you looked up Shuster in the Urban Dictionary (I do not recommend this place for anyone to find anything meaningful) it was listed as a verb meaning to fail to meet expectations, particularly at a moment critical for success or even slightly respectable results; or to choke. That definition remained there for eight years. It is much different now.

At a low point such as this, one has several options: walk away and shield yourself from a repeat of the trauma, or continue forward and grow from the experience. As it is pretty well documented, we chose the latter. I say “we” instead of “I” because nearly every important decision a person makes is one that should not be made alone. Following that season, and at the conclusion of every season since, my wife, Sara, and I talk through our choice of continuing on with my curling career. Spoiler alert: We have only made the choice to continue on to this day.

The four years following 2010 flew by and ended with yet another trip to the Olympics in 2014. We finished near the bottom of the field again, but this time for other reasons than my personal failures on last shots of games like 2010. Following that second failure, USA Curling decided to go a different path with different players the following season in their quest to get a team back onto the Olympic podium in 2018 and beyond.

Deep down, I knew they were making the wrong decision, as I felt the failures of 2010 and 2014 gave me clarity into the ways that I and the fellow curlers in our country could grow to produce that international success in the future. Luckily, in our sport, whether you are a funded athlete or not does not play a role in who represents the USA at things such as the World Championships or the Olympics. In the USA, the team that wins our National Championship or Olympic Trials is the team that represents us.

My new team in 2015 did just that. Since being told by our national coaching staff in the summer of 2014 that we were not the players that were going to bring our country success in the future, three of us from that team have won the right to represent the USA at every World Championship and Olympic Games that we have competed for. Personally, the failures of 2010 and 2014 set up the learning necessary to fuel the successes since.

Although on-ice learning has been some of that education, I believe it’s my office-away-from-curling lifestyle learning that has been most impactful for me. I often refer to this in my speaking engagements: that how you lead your life “between the headlines” matters far more in succeeding than those headline moments. Married life, parenthood and really embracing activities (mine being fishing and hunting) that bring peace and clarity to your soul are the things that have energized my drive to be better on the ice as well.

“THE

BEST ADVICE I CAN PASS ON TO ANYONE LOOKING TO LIVE A MORE FULFILLING LIFE:

BE INTENTIONAL.”

For me, something as small as a trip down to the Brule River for a couple of hours, trying to solve the equation of finding a steelhead and getting it to bite (which is a fairly new venture for me) is just the break I need from the realities of everyday life. I strongly believe that taking those few hours for my own personal journey away from my career fuels me to be a better husband, dad, teammate and person. It is incredible how such small things can recharge our batteries to help us accomplish the goals we set forth.

Around the same time I began embracing this approach of empowering my soul through hobbies, I also have taken empowerment to the ice with teammates. My 11-year-old asked me what my superpower was not too long ago. My response, without hesitation, was helping and getting my teammates to play the best they have ever played. I don’t say this with arrogance; I simply am very intentional with how I approach each of my teammates to empower them to confidently be the best versions of themselves on the ice. Luckily, with the trust and vulnerability we are able to have with each other, personal and team success has followed.

The final piece of learning I needed in my journey was to remember who is the most important in this journey. Prior to 2018, my teams had reasonable success at the World Championships, but not at the Olympics. See, the Olympics meant more to me (and most sports fans), especially with the goal I had set for myself in 2006 of becoming an Olympic champion. The weight of not only that ultimate personal goal but also the hopes of our country’s sports fans proved too much for me to handle at the Olympics, until one walk across the Olympic Park with my wife, when she reminded me I needed to be the person who got my team there, not anything else. Following that walk, I truly embraced that my performances on the ice wasn’t for anybody else but myself, my teammates and those who were on this full journey with us. That freedom allowed the pressures of the moment and the stage to completely dissipate. I set out the last three games of roundrobin play to give myself and my kids three games at the Olympics that we could truly be proud of. What followed was truly that of fairy tales, as our team rattled off five straight wins and helped me reach that goal of Olympic champion.

Since I captured gold in 2018, life has indeed been different. Often I look back on it all and wonder, if not for that walk and the clarity that followed, how my life would be different. When thinking about that moment, it helps me reset to remember what changed and continue to strive for taking that mindset into all facets of my life. Personal successes, curling successes and the ability to share my story with others have followed. I can confidently state that February 18 and not February 24 (the day we won gold) will likely go down as the most important day of my journey so far.

Thinking back on all of this, I know my learned lessons from the past whirlwind of 18 years give me the best advice I can pass on to anyone looking to live a more fulfilling life: be intentional. Be intentional about finding hobbies and activities that help you move forward and bring you back to your center; be intentional about making major life choices while taking influence from the stakeholders in your life; be intentional about getting your satisfaction and joy from the things in life between the headlines; and finally, when you feel like you have found what that recipe is for your life that allows you to live better, remember it well. Write it down, if that’s what it takes. A short, dull pencil and a napkin will always beat a long-term memory.

hello@thelakeandco.com

FEARLESS ADVENTURERS

GRANT SORENSEN

Angler, Outdoor Guide

@superioranglingco

"WINTER IS ONLY COLD IF YOU STOP MOVING.”

@splitrockkeeperhayes

“I DON’T WANT TO HATE WHERE I LIVE FOR SIX MONTHS (SOMETIMES LONGER) OUT OF THE YEAR. WINTER IS REALLY WHEN MINNESOTA SHINES.”

Winter Surfer

@paulschonfeld

"IF YOU CAN FIND ONE OR MORE PEOPLE TO HELP YOU GET PAST ANY HURDLES YOU’LL INEVITABLY ENCOUNTER, THAT CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE TO KEEP YOU PARTICIPATING AND LEARNING.”

Sailor, Outdoor Guide @amicusadventuresailing

"WE HAVE HONED OUR SKILLS THROUGH EXPERIENCE. THERE IS NO OTHER WAY. STEERING A TIGHT COURSE THROUGH ROUGH WATER COMES ONLY FROM HOURS AT THE WHEEL.”

Winter Camper @mollyasolberg

"WHEN THINGS ARE TOUGH, I MOVE. STAYING WARM IS KEY. WARMTH AND CHOCOLATE.”

Endurance Athlete @kate_coward_athlete

"IT WAS DARK, IT WAS LOUD, IT WAS COLD AND CHAOTIC, I HAD NO NAVIGATION, AND YET I COULDN’T RESIST. I CONTINUED PUSHING, MARCHING MY BIKE FORWARD.”

Pro Surfer

@jamie.sterling

"THERE WAS A TIME WHILE SURFING IN THE GREAT LAKES WHEN I WAS STUCK IN A CURRENT. I GOT THROUGH IT BY STAYING CALM AND WENT WITH THE FLOW OF THE CURRENT AND CHOSE A DIFFERENT EXIT STRATEGY.”

Beargrease Musher @Colleen_Wallin

"MY CAN-DO ATTITUDE COMES FROM THE PEOPLE WHO SUPPORT ME, AND OUR DOGS. ANYONE CAN DO ANYTHING WITH SUPPORT.”

PAUL SCHONFELD

MOLLY SOLBERG

JAMIE STERLING

COLLEEN WALLIN

KATE COWARD

KATYA GORDON

HAYES SCRIVEN

Split Rock Lighthouse Site Manager, Photographer

Imagine a character trait so unique that it takes three English words to express it.

Determination. Perseverance. Grit.

The Finnish term “sisu” might best be defined as the extraordinary and indomitable spirit required to never quit and to go beyond all limitations, especially in the face of adversity. But more than a word, it’s a quality that expresses the national character. Hardy and inspiring folks for sure.

Not only a can-do attitude, it’s courage that is present even when success is unlikely. It’s resolutely taking action against the odds. It’s going for it and sticking it out even if you fail — and fail again.

Sound familiar?

Lake and Company and Lovin’ Lake County have partnered to share stories of some adventurers who embody sisu. Whether it be harsh conditions, failed gear, injuries or illness, they fail, try again, repeat and succeed. It’s because of these experiences that they’re inspired to dream bigger and push further in the places they live.

Highlighting eight leaders who continually evoke a deep connection with our land and culture, and exhibit sisu in its truest form.

We hope you’re inspired, and ready to go beyond too.

PARK RAPIDS

DETROIT LAKES

MINNEAPOLIS BLOOMINGTON WATERTOWN, SD

In Minnesota, winter isn’t just a season - it’s a lifestyle.

Here, winter outings are for ice fishing, snowmobiling, hockey, skiing, saunas and cold plunges, and all things hygge for the coziness of the indoors. Longer nights mean more time to spend around candlelit dinner tables and bonfires with friends and to marvel at the northern lights during a cozy winter retreat.

Winter is what makes us who we are, and we are here for it. Lake and Company has devised 12 great getaways to various places around the state. This season, be sure to take that trip and explore somewhere new. Whether it's a trip to find indoor entertainment with the fam or hopping on a dogsled for a different kind of adventure, these great communities have something to offer for everyone. Check them out and don't forget to take us along #lakeandcompany

LAKE CITY

ST. CLOUD

TWIN CITIES GATEWAY

GRAND RAPIDS PROCTOR

For a stunning road trip and the unexplored

MINNESOTA’S SOUTH SHORE

Just an hour from the Twin Cities and 30 minutes from Rochester, this diamond in the bluffs sparkles in the winter months. While Lake City is commonly known as the Birthplace of Water Skiing, we were excited to check out its cross-country skiing game on this easy weekend getaway.

HERE ARE OUR RECS FOR A TWO-NIGHT STAY:

DAY 1:

Check in to Willows on the River, a condo on Lake Pepin. You don’t even have to step outside into the cold to enjoy a world-class view, great dining, and an expansive beer and cocktail menu at neighboring Kelly’s Lake House. End the day with some cozy room time, a moonlight ski on the trails at the nearby Hok-Si-La Park or a downtown pub crawl.

DAY 2:

Grab a coffee and famous Hanisch pastry at the stylish downtown Rustic Coffeehouse, then head to Frontenac State Park for top-notch cross-country skiing. Refuel with a self-described “Best Burger West of the Mississippi” at the historic Old Bank before treasure hunting at Willow Gentile Studio & Gallery and the expansive Lakeside Antiques. Explore Wild Wings Plaza’s vast emporium of goods, gifts and treats, then shake some winter rust off your swing with their golf simulators. End the day with some bowling and apps at Port 104.

DAY 3:

For breakfast, it’s biscuits and gravy with a side of fresh fruit at Heidi’s Huggamug on the doorstep of Ohuta Beach Park. Then enjoy a brisk, crisp stroll on Lake City’s River Walk. Leave time for one more soak in the spa at the Willows before it's time to check out!

LAKE CITY

STAY

Willows on the River EAT

Heidi’s Huggamug Kelly’s Lake House Old Bank  SHOP

Lakeside Antiques PLAY

Hok-Si-La Park Port 104 EVENTS

Hok Si La by Moonlight Feb. 1, 2025 @ 5 - 7 KEEP EXPLORING visitlakecity.org

70 miles from the metro area

Snow MUCH Fun Brainerd in

By CARRIE SCARFINO

The Brainerd Lakes area is well known for summer getaways at the cabin or local area resorts, where you can take in the fresh “up north” lake air and sunset bonfires, and bask in the glory of yearly traditions.

Maybe you haven’t considered a winter retreat in Brainerd — because traveling to top winter destinations by plane, train or automobile to experience winter wonderlands is what many people’s dreams are made of. But what if we told you that all that snowy magic is right in your backyard?

A short two-hour drive from the Twin Cities metro area takes you to your own winter snow globe with micro-experiences at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd on Gull Lake.

Starting in December and going through March, Cragun’s transforms into the winter destination for those seeking to experience why Minnesotans are active in all four seasons, even the coldest months.

Cragun’s Resort winter activities

Snowshoeing

Cross-country skiing

Snow castle building

Snow hill for sledding (sleds provided)

Snowman-building competitions

Indoor arts and crafts

Kitty Cat snowmobile track for kids

Ice bowling Bonfires, and more

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Imagine this: A two-night stay at Cragun’s Resort. Whether you’re coming with your family, friends or a huge group, this itinerary has just enough for everyone to find something entertaining.

Book your winter getaway today

Stay in a cabin or Lakeview Lodge hotel room. Pick your package by scanning the QR code or call 800-272-4867.

DAY 1:

Arrival at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd

• Enjoy dinner at the Canoe & Paddle Pub, located in the resort lobby.

• Pick up ice skates to enjoy an evening ice skating on the lighted rink right outside the marina.

DAY 2:

• Eat breakfast on the property at the Lakeside Dining Room.

• Take a dogsled ride right outside the Cragun’s lodge entrance with our local musher and his lovable dogs.

• Eat lunch at a local restaurant, then head to Mount Ski Gull to go tubing, skiing or snowboarding.

• After an afternoon on the slopes, head back to Cragun’s and warm up in front of your fireplace before dinner, where you can delight yourself with seasonal cocktails and mocktails.

• Before heading back to your room, play bingo with your family or enjoy live music at Canoe & Paddle Pub.

DAY 3:

• Rise and shine early to ice fish on Steamboat Bay on Gull Lake in one of Cragun’s heated ice fishing houses. Cragun’s will supply all the fishing equipment and bait.

• Next, bundle up for a two-hour snowmobile trail ride. Whether you are bringing your own snow gear or need to use Cragun’s, we’ll make sure you have a great time. The map we provide will make you feel confident exploring the Pillsbury State Forest.

• After a day of outdoor fun, slip into your swimsuit to enjoy the indoor pool and hot tub at Cragun’s.

• Enjoy pizza and cocktails at Above Deck as you wind down from your “up north” winter vacation.

UNEXPECTED CULTURE IN THE NORTHWOODS

SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI

When it’s time to hit the trails, Park Rapids boasts more than 400 miles of well-groomed snowmobile paths that spiderweb through the region’s forests, fields, ditches and state parks. These trails, meticulously maintained by local clubs like the Forest Riders and Nevis Trailblazers, lead to neighboring towns and offer varied terrain for every type of rider. Whether you’re seeking a short adventure or an all-day ride, the network of trails has it for you. For a more serene experience, be sure to check

out the Twinkle Light Trail, a 3/4-mile lighted trail at Bear Paw Campground in Itasca State Park. Available for snowshoeing and walking, the trail is lighted from dusk to 10 p.m. daily through the winter snow season. The Soaring Eagle Ski Trails are located 6 miles north of Park Rapids on U.S. Hwy. 71 and boast 13km of marked and groomed trails. All trails are groomed classical and skate, with Lake Loop being designated classical only. The Nordic Center warming house is open during the ski season.

Top your day off with dinner at Necce’s Ristorante, a gem in downtown Park Rapids. It’s a fabulous place for authentic Italian fine dining, house-made desserts and signature craft cocktails, wines and tap beers. The food is fresh and carefully prepared, and the presentation is exquisite. Chef Necce brings her worldly knowledge to her dishes. Check their website for special wine-tasting events.

Edgewood Resort

Pine Cone Lodge Vacationaire Resort

Bella Caffé

Necce’s Ristorante Revel Brewing

SECURE. LASTING. STRONG.

Discover high-quality post frame buildings made for your favorite hobby, at your ideal budget.

Here at Northland, you’ll find buildings created for outdoorsmen, by outdoorsmen. As true-blue outdoor enthusiasts, born and bred here in the Northland, we know how to build tough, long-lasting buildings that you’ll love. We know this because we use and love Northland buildings too, from storing our fishing gear to housing our man caves.

We specialize in post-frame buildings. Discover all of the advantages to a post-frame building, including flexibility in design, durability, and functionality. You’ll quickly see that your building is a functional beauty, giving you the space you need in the style you want. You’ll be able to customize your building, right down to the finishing touches, seamlessly, and get a building that’s been designed to stand the test of time.

We live and breathe the Northland lifestyle 365 days a year, and can help you achieve it too. Northland buildings offer you convenience, style, durability and value all at your budget. Experience the rugged beauty that only a Northland building can offer.

What you get with Northland

YOUR LAUNCH PAD TO EVERYWHERE YOU NEED TO BE

ADVENTURE IN EVERY DIRECTION PROCTOR

Proctor, Minnesota: Where you can find adventure in every direction. As your base camp positioned at the gateway to the North Shore of Lake Superior, Proctor offers endless adventures and things to see. Be sure to take in a hike up to Ely’s Peak, a local favorite, or head over to Spirit Mountain for a ride on their alpine slide, or just take the ski lift to the top to get a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful Lake Superior.

Another local favorite is the Jet on a Stick. At 71 feet long, this F-101 Voodoo is mounted nearly 20 feet off the ground. The jet was dedicated on July 4, 1974, to captains James Verville and Sherman Gonyea of the local 148th Fighter Group. The two officers were killed on December 17, 1971, when they crashed while taking off on a routine training flight.

Of course, after a full day of adventure, it’s time to settle down and warm up with an authentic all-American dinner at Black Woods Grill & Bar, which features a locally sourced menu. And speaking of warming up, their chicken potpie or pot roast is sure to do just that.

Mountain Jet on a Stick Ely’s Peak

Proctor Classic Snowmobile Challenge Bentleyville Tour of Lights KEEP EXPLORING proctormn.gov

THE TROLL TRAIL

SEE YOU AT THE LAKES!

Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, Detroit Lakes is where lakes, prairies and forests meet art and culture, creating the ideal getaway. Danish artist Thomas Dambo adds to the charm with his larger-than-life trolls.

Art and Local History

Start your trip at the Becker County Historical Society & Museum at 714 Summit Avenue. This newly constructed museum offers a fascinating

center and a gift shop with troll-themed souvenirs tied to Dambo’s work. Afterward, take a stroll downtown to explore cozy cafés and boutiques, where you’ll find handmade goods and unique local items.

The Troll Trail

The heart of Detroit Lakes is found in Dambo’s recycled-material troll sculptures, each one blending creativity with a sustainability message. Grab a map from the Chamber of Commerce (700 Summit Avenue) and embark on the Troll Trail. The 70-mile stretch features six giant trolls, three magic mirror portals and clues to uncover a golden rabbit tucked into the rolling woods near Detroit Lakes. Each troll is uniquely designed in Dambo’s bark-and-shingle style with an expressive face and oversized limbs, including Long Leif, who at 36 feet is the tallest and most striking.

enveloped by the beauty of Minnesota’s northwoods. Detroit Lakes also offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to bird watching along scenic trails, to swimming and kayaking on the lake. In the winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and other sports, making it a perfect destination year-round.

Lodging

Dambo’s trolls make Detroit Lakes a unique destination where art meets nature. To fully experience the Troll Trail, it’s best to spend more than one day, or plan to start early and end late. Whether you’re here for a night or the weekend, you’ll find plenty of cozy places to stay, with around 450 hotel rooms to choose from, as well as lakeside resorts like Fair Hills.

Dambo, known for turning “trash” into art, uses salvaged wood and other materials to create the trolls. Each troll takes around 1,000 hours, a true testament to Dambo’s commitment to craftsmanship and environmentalism. His book, Trash, Trolls and Treasure Hunts, filled with stories and photos of his first 100 trolls now seen worldwide, is available at Bluebird Books in Detroit Lakes.

Evening by the Lake

After a day of exploration, unwind with lakeside dining at local favorites like Hub 41 and Long Bridge Bar, Grill & Marina. For an unforgettable experience, rent a pontoon and take a sunset cruise on the serene lake, where you’ll be

DETROIT LAKES

STAY

Best Western Five Lakes Resort

EAT Hub-41

200 miles from the metro area

Barefoot Frida by James Dambo's treasure hunt. A center piece and a creative tourist destination of Detroit Lakes. Commissioned by Project 412.

thomasdambo.com project412mn.org

Roasted Pub & Eatery + Baked In Dl

SHOP

Bluebird books

Main Stream Boutique

PLAY

Historic Holms Theatre

Detroit Mountain Recreational Area

Dambo’s Troll Sculptures

EVENTS

Polar Fest Plunge Feb 22, 2025

KEEP EXPLORING

visitdetroitlakes.com

Creating Exceptional Memories

The historic Grand View Lodge on Gull Lake has been providing our guests with memorable vacations since 1916. Explore a variety of winter activities, relax at the world-renowned Glacial Waters Spa, dine at our distinctive dining venues, or roast marshmallows by a toasty bonfire! GRANDVIEWLODGE.COM

By JOHN SUGIMURA | Photography by ASHA BELK

My life is a celebration of everything Japanese. I cook to make Japan easier to understand, keep Japanese Americans socially relevant, and promote Japanese urbanity. I tell my story.

I am a second-generation chef, third-generation Japanese American and professionally trained sushi chef. I have advanced my culinary practice through my continuing study and travel to Japan. I celebrate and guard the values of traditional Japanese cuisine and highlight often overlooked traditional nuances in my preparations. My food is the ultimate expression of flavors, colors and cooking methods coming together in an authentic experience that is one of a kind.

I am inspired by my widowed grandmother’s resiliency. Following the loss of my grandfather after immigrating to the U.S., my grandmother saw food as a way of providing for her young family. She opened a restaurant in Sacramento, California, in the 1930s to support her family during a time when few women ran or owned successful businesses.

By the spring of 1942, 120,000 American citizens of Japanese descent were “sent to” hastily built assembly centers. My family was unjustly incarcerated during World War II, being forced into the Tule Lake Segregation Center. They experienced detention behind barbed wire while living in barracks. Four and a half years later, my family left the war camp with five pieces of luggage. I share in the history of the incarceration experience. I am part of a resurgence of passion and ownership in a telling of the story, primarily as a descendant. My elders have left me with many unanswered questions. Retelling stories provides invaluable lessons for us today. They let us see through the lens of human nature, both good and evil. With the current rise in anti-Asian violence, fueled again by scapegoating and a perpetual foreigner mentality, it is painfully clear that the struggle for recognition of legitimacy and inclusion is still relevant.

Two generations and three-quarters of a century later, I am picking up where my grandmother left off. I grew up in a mixed-race family. For many years, I had a sense of cultural limbo that characterized my life. But even after many years of visiting Japan, a semester

of Japanese at college and countless questions to my father, I still didn’t feel like I was getting the answers I needed.

With Japanese Americans, there’s a term called Gaman, referring to the Japanese Buddhist phrase translating as “to endure the unbearable with patience and grace.” Gaman means you’re in the war camps, you lost everything, you lost people … but then World War II is over; you’re not a victim. Smile. Move on. This stoic nature adopted by my family meant that much of the history I wanted to engage with was either lost or hidden from memory. However, one aspect of my family life stood out above everything else. I didn’t look Japanese, and I didn’t act Japanese. Food was the one thing that outed me.

I began to delve deeper and deeper into the history of Japanese Americans through the heritage of food. In 2008, I enrolled in the Sushi Institute of America, now known as the Miyako Sushi and Washoku School in Little Tokyo, the heart of the largest Japanese American population in North America. The school is affiliated with the Japan Culinary Arts Institute in Tokyo. I specialized in sushi, and when I graduated as a Silver-certified chef, I returned to Minneapolis ready to share my food. Now a fully trained Japanese chef, I began to see my world open up. As more and more stories started to rise to the surface, my grandmother’s memories and the war deeply intertwined with food. At the end of the day, I get pleasure from seeing the support I have gained from challenging stereotypes through cuisine. People in the world want to eat food that has a story!

Eating my food is like eating in my grandmother’s restaurant in the 1930s. So, in homage to the grandmother I love but never met, I serve my Japanese-roots signature items on her platter as a hug and nod to my true inspiration. I find comfort in exploring the thing we have in common and strive to create great food that would make my grandmother proud. That’s always the measure!

FOR CABIN FEVER

CLOSE TO THE ACTION, FAR FROM THE NOISE

WINTER FUN FOR EVERYONE!

The Twin Cities Gateway is a winter wonderland, offering a variety of activities for all ages. Bundle up and explore miles of cross-country ski trails, glide across frozen lakes or cozy up by a fire while ice fishing. From black-light bowling to art studios, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep cabin fever at bay! After a day of adventure, warm up with a hearty meal at a local restaurant or brewery. Here’s your guide to family-friendly winter fun!

INDOOR THRILLS

Bowlero Blaine is a top destination for families, offering bowling lanes, an arcade, laser tag, billiards and a sports bar with oversized servings to share. Nearby, Cheap Skate Roller Center in Coon Rapids invites families to skate, scoot or play in bounce houses, with special events like Tuesday Family Night.

Head over to Mermaid Entertainment & Event Center in Mounds View — the largest event space in the upper Midwest — offering bowling and arcade games for all ages. At Rumriver Art Center in Anoka, explore art classes, open studio sessions and monthly Free Family Art Days designed for creative play.

For airborne fun, visit Urban Air Adventure Park in Coon Rapids and Zero Gravity Trampoline Park in Mounds View. These indoor playgrounds feature ropes courses, climbing walls and trampolines, ensuring action-packed fun for everyone.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Winter’s beauty shines at Anoka County Parks, where you can explore trails for fat-tire biking and cross-country skiing. Bunker Hills Regional Park offers an exciting addition — skijoring (skiing with dogs) for adventurous families. For a magical experience, enjoy a sleigh ride through snow-covered trails at Bunker Park Stables — a cozy way to enjoy the winter scenery.

Looking for something unique? The Four Seasons Curling Club at the Blaine Ice House is North America’s only official Olympic-training curling facility. Whether you want to learn the basics at a hands-on clinic or watch a local match, it’s a fun experience for everyone.

EATS

Warm up and refuel at local favorites like Maxx Bar & Grill, Moe’s American Grill and Serum’s Good Time Emporium, where you’ll find hearty meals and cozy atmospheres perfect for capping off a day of winter fun.

TWIN CITIES GATEWAY

EAT

Maxx Bar & Grill

Moe’s American Grill, Serum’s Good Time Emporium PLAY

Bowlero Blaine Cheap Skate Roller Center Mermaid Entertainment & Event Center

Rumriver Art Center Four Seasons Curling Club EVENTS

Winterfest Jan 25, 2025 KEEP EXPLORING tcgateway.com

When you contact Best Care, you’ll be greeted by our dedicated management team, who are ready to answer your questions and guide you through the Personal Care Assistant (PCA) process. Every day, our staff connects clients to the support they need and helps caregivers receive fair compensation for the high-quality, dedicated care they provide to a loved one. Whether you’re a friend or family member who is currently providing in-home care for a senior parent or disabled loved one without compensation, we’re happy to help!.

ESCAPE INTO THE STAR OF THE NORTH

THE CITY BY NATURE

This snowy season (whether the season returns to what we’re used to or not!), plan a visit to Winter*apolis, where it’s cool to stay and play. Embrace winter and ignite your sense of adventure in a place where the fun never hibernates. With hotels at every price point and sense of style, you’ll have a home base for your time spent with family or friends that will be filled with the hottest lineup of winter events and cold-weather fun you won’t find anywhere else.

Whether you want to chill out at an outdoor festival or cozy up with some friends over cocktails at the chic new spot in the North Loop, you’ll find the warmest winter vibes in Minneapolis.

We believe cold weather should never stop the fun. Weeklong winter festivals, concerts, outdoor saunas, cold plunges, sporting events, theater, the hottest food scene and the coolest year-round patios are waiting in the City by Nature.

The Great Northern joins forces with Minnesota Ice to craft a bespoke, 100-foot ice bar inspired by Minnesota’s natural beauty and expansive community of mixologists, breweries, and distilleries. Located in downtown Minneapolis spanning an entire block, The Great Northern Ice Bar is your go-to spot this winter for gathering, mingling, and trying unique cocktails.

MINNEAPOLIS

Minneapolis Institute of

Weisman

American Swedish Institute

The Museum of Russian Art

Luminary Loppet

Feb 8, 2025

Minneapolis Boat Show Jan 23, 2025 KEEP

minneapolismn.gov

THE ULTIMATE STAYCATION

COUNTLESS EXCITING ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES FOR ALL

Welcome to Bloomington! Nestled just outside of the Twin Cities, Bloomington offers countless attractions and activities. After settling into one of the city’s 50+ hotels and taking advantage of exclusive packages, it’s time to dive into what the city has to offer. Scale new heights at adventure parks, wander scenic trails, world-class shopping, or dine at top-notch restaurants.

DAY 1: GET ACTIVE

Kick off your weekend with high-energy fun at Vertical Endeavors, one of the Midwest’s premier indoor rock-climbing facilities. With climbing options for all skill levels, this is the perfect activity to challenge yourself.

After working up an appetite, head to Luna di Luna for lunch. This charming Italian eatery, tucked away in an unexpected location, serves delicious handmade pasta and authentic dishes in a cozy, artsy setting.

In the afternoon, explore Hyland Lake Park Reserve for snow-covered trails and panoramic views, or visit the Bloomington Center for the Arts for rotating exhibitions. For dinner, try Ciao Bella, a beloved local spot for Italian cuisine. Whether you choose to dine in their art-adorned dining room or on the heated terrace, make sure to finish with their signature budino for dessert!

EDITORS TOP 10

• Museum Of Illusions

• The Salt Cave

DAY 2: MALL OF AMERICA

No trip to Bloomington is complete without a visit to the Mall of America. As the largest mall in the U.S., there’s no shortage of things to do. Spend your day exploring hundreds of stores and attractions. Plus, enjoy rides and roller coasters at Nickelodeon Universe, or immerse yourself in the wonders of SEA LIFE Mall of America, for a more tranquil experience.

For dinner, enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Cedar + Stone, Urban Table, which highlights Minnesota’s best local ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a casual, lively atmosphere, head to Rainforest Café or Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. For added fun, head to The Fair on 4, where you can enjoy classic fair foods and arcade games.

DAY 3: ART, HISTORY, NATURE

Start your day with breakfast at Taste of Scandinavia, a local bakery celebrating Nordic flavors, or Backstory Coffee Roasters, for coffee and pastries. Then head to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge for a serene winter hike, and enjoy birdwatching with binoculars.

For lunch, stop by Hazelwood Food + Drink or its sister spot, Pizza Novara, both offering delicious meals with views of Mall of America and nearby airport activity.

Wrap up your staycation with a self-guided tour of Bloomington’s South Loop Public Art. Download the Otocast app to explore over 35 installations, learning about the stories and artists behind these colorful murals and art boxes. End the evening at Nine Mile Brewing Co., where you can enjoy craft beers and food trucks in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

• Moose Mountain Adventure Golf in Mall of America

• ProKART Indoor Racing

• Hidden Falls Park

• Mall of America®: Crayola Experience

• Full Tilt Tavern

• Whirly Ball

• Edinborough Park

• Normandale Japanese Garden

The Mall of America is a destination like no other, with over 520 stores and a world-class entertainment hub. Highlights include Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, minigolf, virtual reality, live events, and a variety of dining options—offering something for all ages.

The Boundary Waters

Canoe Area Wilderness in northeastern Minnesota is one of America’s most pristine and vulnerable wild places.

Spanning over 1.1 million acres along the Canadian border, this extraordinary landscape is made up of interconnected lakes, rivers, wetlands, and forests. However, it is under serious threat from toxic sulfide-ore copper mining, which the Environmental Protection Agency has identified as the most toxic industry in America. Proposed mining near its borders risks catastrophic pollution that could irreversibly damage this treasure, jeopardizing its land and waters for generations.

This is a critical time for the Boundary Waters. We need every voice to speak up and defend this unique Wilderness. Join Save the Boundary Waters in our effort to secure permanent protection for this incredible landscape.

Together, we can ensure its protection for all, forever.

Photo by NATE LUEBBE @nateinthewild & AUTUMN SCHROCK @autpops

LAND OF 1000 LAKES

IT'S IN MINNESOTAS NATURE

Winter is the perfect time for a little getaway up north to relax, recreate and recharge. Rent a cozy cabin in the woods or on a lake, book a hotel suite with fireplace or find a cozy B&B. Slow down, sleep in, cuddle up with a cup of coffee or tea, or get outdoors and recharge. Honestly, all of us need to allow ourselves more time to unplug. Life gets crazy busy with full schedules. When was the last time you booked a getaway just to rest?

TWO-DAY WINTER GETAWAY

DAY 1:

Only 1.5 hours west of Duluth, 2.5 hours north of St. Cloud, 3.5 hours north of the Twin Cities, 3.5 hours northeast of Fargo and 4.5 hours north of Rochester. Check in to lodging, unpack and get settled. Grab dinner at one of our favorites: Sammy’s Pizza, Forest Lake, Unwined Up North, Rapids Brewing Company or Timberlake Restaurant. Catching live music at Rapids Brewing or at the Fraternal Order of Eagles is always fun, then heading to Zorbaz for late-night.

DAY 2:

Enjoy a cozy morning in PJs cuddled up with a good book by the fireplace. Grab breakfast in town at Dottie’s Hometown Café, Brewed Awakenings or Hotel Rapids Bar + Bistro, which serves excellent crêpes. Stroll downtown through local boutiques, beautiful outdoor public art and the art galleries at MacRostie Art Center. You will find over 2,000 miles of designated trails for cross-country skiing, mountain biking, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. There are lots of outdoor winter activities to enjoy.

Being in Minnesota’s nature has a way of calming and reconnecting your thoughts to what is important in your life. Doing this with friends and family can be a very spiritual experience, especially when the leaves are gone from the trees, the air is cool and crisp, and you take in the trees, the lakes and rivers, and the wildlife — listening to the leaves rustle as squirrels gather acorns or spotting deer crossing the woods. Listening to the birds chirp and watching the eagles soar and geese fly overhead.

Just 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids is Mount Itasca, which has downhill skiing, snowboarding terrain, snow-tubing and cross-country ski trails. It is open December until March each year (snow and weather dependent).

Once you have had a chance to get some up-north outdoor air in your lungs, you’ll be able to head back home with renewed vigor.

GRAND RAPIDS

Klockow Brewing,

Rapids Brewing Co.

Nopo Coffee Company

Timberlake

Hotel Rapids

Sammys Pizza

SHOP

Lake & Company

Bender’s Shoes

L&M Fleet Supply

PLAY

175 miles from the metro area

Reif Performing Arts Center

Fitness & Bala Med Spa

EVENTS

World of Winter 2025 January 10 - March 2

KEEP EXPLORING visitgrandrapids.com

Take a rip on the Taconite State Trail. A ride along the Taconite State Trail will take you on a ride through the history of iron-mining in northeastern Minnesota. Winding through the birch, aspen and pine forests of northern Minnesota, this natural-surface trail stretches 165 miles from Grand Rapids to Ely, Minnesota.

Polar Life Haus

Leah Emerson Photography Nordic Nest on Airbnb

THAT FEELING WHEN ADVENTURE CALLS

THE GRANITE CITY

Check out the three theaters in downtown St. Cloud for live entertainment (Gnarly Bard, Pioneer Place on Fifth and Paramount Center for the Arts). Looking for more? Beaver Island Brewing Company’s comedy on Saturday nights and Red Carpet Nightclub events are not to be missed.

Minnesota is home to hockey: Check out a Lumberjacks, SCSU or Norsemen game!

Great food and drink scene: Thai and Filipino food from Arroy Thai & Filipino Restaurant; Indian food from Kohinoor; Mexican food from Mexican Village; seafood boil from Boil Seafood Restaurant. Find your favorite tea from Spice of Life Tea Shop or Irish fare from Olde Brick House. Try a delightfully different item like the coconut red curry latté from Jules’ Bistro, and other local favorites like The Pickled Loon Saloon, The White Horse and more!

Breweries: Pantown Brewing Company, Beaver Island Brewing Company or Back Shed Brewing, and don’t forget about our speakeasy, Blue Goose, which is open when the blue light is on, and Iron Street Distillery. Or head to the Martini Lounge at Red Carpet Nightclub for a huge selection of martinis!

Head outdoors: Laser-light tubing at Powder Ridge; snowshoeing, hiking and more at Quarry Park & Nature Preserve; or skating at Lake George (free rentals available after ice is safe).

5

MUST-DO ACTIVITIES

1. Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Mississippi River.

2. Get your adrenaline pumping at Quarry Park and Nature Preserve

3. Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Ledge Amphitheater, Paramount Center for the Arts, and the Pioneer Place Theatre.

4. Indulge in the local culinary scene.

5. Stroll through the beautiful Munsinger Gardens and Clemens Gardens.

Lace up your skates in the Lake George Area! Between natural and man-made rinks there is an abundance of smooth, sparkling ice to glide on this winter.

Enjoy a latte at Jules Bistro, Located in St. Cloud’s historic downtown. Jules is unique in its cozy atmosphere and delectable menu.

HEAD TOWARDS THE WESTERN PLAINS AND GLACIAL LAKES

A WELCOME ADVENTURE

Watertown offers a unique retreat, blending small-town charm with activities perfect for all ages. Located just 3.5 hours from Minneapolis, this destination is an ideal spot to embrace the heart of the colder months. The town is known for its beautiful lakes, historic downtown and local experiences that highlight the region’s agricultural heritage and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, discover local art or enjoy family-friendly events, Watertown’s unique blend of history, nature and community spirit creates an unforgettable getaway.

A WEEKEND ITINERARY IN WATERTOWN

DAY 1: ART AND NATURE

Set the tone for you r weekend by immersing yourself in the beauty of the Redlin Art Center. Wander through galleries showcasing Terry Redlin’s breathtaking art and take a peaceful stroll through the 30-acre conservation park surrounding the center. This is the perfect introduction to Watertown’s charm.

Afterward, head to one of Watertown’s cozy local spots for dinner, such as Minervas or Dempsey’s Brewery Pub & Restaurant, to wrap up your first evening with a hearty, delicious meal.

DAY 2: FAMILY FUN AND HISTORY

Start the day at the Bramble Park Zoo, where you can enjoy indoor exhibits and connect with fascinating wildlife in a family-friendly environment. After a morning of exploring, head downtown for lunch at one of Watertown’s charming cafés, like Gather or Backroads Coffeehouse & Lunchboxx.

Spend the afternoon at the Codington County Heritage Museum, where you’ll step back in time and learn about Watertown’s rich local history through interactive exhibits.

Next, spend some time browsing the unique shopping scene in Historic Downtown Watertown. Maud’s Mercantile is a must-visit for local crafts, home décor and unique gifts.

In the evening, enjoy dinner and a show at the Goss Opera House. This beautifully restored venue offers live entertainment and a delightful dining experience in a historic setting.

DAY 3: FINAL TASTE OF WATERTOWN

Begin your final day with breakfast at The Wheel Inn, a beloved diner offering nostalgic vibes and comforting dishes. Then take the morning to visit the Prairie Lakes Wellness Center for some indoor recreation or make one last shopping stop downtown to grab those special finds.

You’ll also find a variety of fun activities during the Watertown Winter Farm Show (February 12–15, 2025), including livestock shows, a state crop showcase and family-friendly activities.

Enjoy handcrafted beer made right in Watertown, SD. There's always something new and different to try with a wide range of housebrewed beers and rotating taps from regional breweries.

ICE BARS

Simply the Icing on the Cake

The famous Igloo Bar, located on the ice in front of

on Lake

boasts more than 1,000 square feet and offers big-screen TVs, hot food and some of the best-tasting beverages around. Oh yeah, and you can actually fish in the bar!

Zippel Bay

of the Woods,

By: JOE HENRY

Imagine walking into a bar and ordering your favorite beverage while checking out the game on the big-screen TV. As you debate between a cheesy brat and a warm bread bowl of chili, the bartender asks, “Would you guys like to fish?” There’s no doubt Lake of the Woods is an ice fishing mecca, and if you decide to come up and set the hook on some of its prized walleyes and saugers, don’t forget afterward to check out an ice bar located on the lake.

Visitors to the Lake of the Woods area come to ice fish with many different expectations. Whether you’re a hard-core angler, you enjoy the social aspect of ice fishing or you fall somewhere in between, one of the spots that catches most anglers’ attention is the Igloo Bar. At more than 1,000 square feet, this structure requires thick ice — at least 15 inches. The Igloo Bar is located in front of Zippel Bay.

The bar is transported onto the ice in two pieces and bolted together. It’s equipped with big-screen TVs, electric lights, running water, a limited hot-food menu and heated portapotties that resemble little igloos.

For $5 per hour, you can rent a fish hole in the bar. Rattle reels are available or you can bring in your own ice fishing rod. How many bartenders do you know who have a fresh bucket of minnows behind the bar?

I commented to Nick how things get pretty festive when someone catches a fish in the bar. “You should see what happens when someone loses one,” he replied with a smile.

The Igloo Bar is an ice fishing favorite. There’s a barrel with burning wood outside for those who enjoy a little heat while stepping out of the bar for some fresh air. It also adds to the ambience and creates a nice atmosphere outside the bar.

It’s festive, it’s Minnesotan and it’s unlike anything most people have experienced. For many, it’s the perfect way to embrace the Minnesota winter, enjoying a drink in a festive bar way out on Lake of the Woods while ice fishing — what more could you ask for?

Zippel Bay Resort plows an ice road from the resort through Zippel Bay and out onto Lake of the Woods. The road is as wide as a four-lane highway in most spots and is very well maintained. Once you get away from shore, where the fishing is good, side roads on the thick ice branch off from the main road, with plenty of fish houses spread out. Many of these are resort fish houses that guests rent for the day or, if a sleeper fish house, overnight.

Signs mark each road so guests can easily locate their rental fish house. Names like “Walleye Way” and “Igloo Street” help you find your way.

With the success and notoriety the Igloo Bar has experienced, it was only a matter of time before others followed suit. Justin and Tanya Ferguson, owners of Cyrus Resort on the south shore of Lake of the Woods, had an idea. Owning a resort with their own ice road, they asked themselves, “Why don’t we have a bar on the ice too?” In January 2022, the Angry Walleye opened about half a mile off the south shore on Lake of the Woods!

“People ask how to find it at night,” says Justin. “I tell them, when you round the corner on our ice road in the bay, you can’t miss it with all the lights. You can actually see it from shore. We’ve got it lit up like a Christmas tree.”

The Angry Walleye is a 16x29-foot bar with electric lights, a big-screen TV and a bar stocked with most types of spirits a person could want. They offer six flavors of beer, along with soda and water. The bar also features Cyrus’s homemade pizzas — a hit on a cold night inside a festive bar on the ice.

“The success of the Igloo Bar is really what drove this idea,” explains Justin. “Our neighbors down the lake have done a nice job, and we thought, why not us? It wasn’t easy. We had to get permits, have it inspected and so on, but now it’s open, and folks are really enjoying it.”

The bar is big enough that it had to be pulled out by a large groomer with tracks. Although the bar is set up for ice fishing, they haven’t started offering fishing inside yet. That doesn’t seem to bother anyone. “We get a good rush of anglers who’ve been out fishing all day and want to swing in for a drink and some fresh homemade pizza before heading off the ice,” Justin explains.

Having a bar on the ice is certainly a novelty and offers guests another way to enjoy this unique ice fishing mecca. It’s almost like a celebration of ice fishing. Imagine the conversations after a day on the ice: “How did you do?” “Where are you from?” “Catch anything big?” These are common “icebreakers” at the Igloo Bar, the Angry Walleye and other resort bars around the lake.

The Angry Walleye is located just offshore from Cyrus Resort on Bostic Bay, about 3 miles west of the Rainy River and Wheeler’s Point area. As a reference, the Igloo Bar and Angry Walleye are about 5 miles apart on the ice.

Most people come to Lake of the Woods for ice fishing or, in some cases, snowmobiling. If you are coming up to reel in a few walleyes and saugers, regardless of where you stay, think about swinging into an ice bar.

They are very simply the icing on the cake!

UNIQUE

Looking for a charming getaway in the heart of La Crosse, Wisconsin? This spacious 4-bedroom loft is perfect for larger groups, offering king and queen beds, three full baths, and plenty of space for entertaining. With a fully stocked kitchen, piano, and board games, it’s ideal for hosting friends and family. Sleeping up to ten, it’s just blocks from top attractions like the La Crosse Center, Riverside Park, and local festivals. The Main Event Center, located kitty-corner below, hosts exciting events like comedy shows and small concerts, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of downtown. Your La Crosse adventure begins here!

STAYS

Downtown La Crosse is a fantastic home base for exploring the Driftless area. These unique stays combine luxury, comfort, and convenience—all within walking distance of the Mississippi River, Grandad’s Bluff, and more. Whether you’re planning a solo trip, family vacation, or group adventure, we have the ideal space to suit your needs.

For small groups, the 2-bedroom flat on Third Street puts you in the middle of it all, with the Mississippi River to the west and Grandad’s Bluff to the east. Featuring exposed brick, an industrial-style ceiling, and a high-end kitchen with granite countertops, it’s perfect for relaxing, cooking, or socializing. With two bedrooms, a pull-out couch, and a sleeper chair, it sleeps up to seven. Need more space? Rent the entire floor with a neighboring 2-bedroom loft.

For mid-sized groups, the 3-bedroom loft offers ample space and modern amenities, including a king master suite with a private bath, exposed brick accents, and a high-end kitchen. Located in the heart of downtown La Crosse, this beauty is right above a well-known local bakery, and the smell is to die for! Right out your door are restaurants, coffee shops, clothing boutiques, an art studio, and all of the local favorites. Enjoy the local charm and vibrant nightlife just outside your door.

Turn Key Partners LLC is a boutique hospitality company specializing in short-term vacation rentals, dedicated to creating exceptional experiences for travelers. Founded in March 2020, right at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have quickly adapted and thrived in a challenging environment, expanding our portfolio to 24 properties across multiple states and internationally, including two stunning locations in Costa Rica.

Our diverse range of accommodations caters to various tastes and preferences, ensuring that every guest finds the perfect home away from home. With a strong emphasis on personalized service and attention to detail, we strive to make each stay memorable, blending comfort, style, and convenience. At Turn Key Partners LLC, we are passionate about hospitality and committed to delivering unique experiences that keep our guests coming back, whether for a weekend escape or an extended vacation.

GET LazY

LITTLE

LAZY LODGE IS YOUR HOME BASE FOR ADVENTURE

Little Lazy Lodge: The Ultimate NorthWoods Escape

Discover the essence of luxury and tranquility at Little Lazy Lodge, the ultimate Northwoods retreat. We’re not just a destination, but “where you come to be.” With its blend of modern, luxurious amenities and the serene tranquility of northern Minnesota, Little Lazy undoubtedly distinguishes itself in unexpected ways.

Nestled in the serene Chippewa National Forest, this newly built 3,800-square-foot lodge offers a perfect blend of contemporary design and rustic charm, accommodating up to 25 guests.

Escaping to this northern paradise is a dream, where modern amenities like the 12-person hot tub, the steam shower and the chef’s kitchen meet the tranquility of 180 acres of pristine wilderness. With plenty of outdoor spaces, including firepits and expansive grounds, this lodge, venue and property are ideal for outdoor activities and adventures.

A Venue Like No Other

Little Lazy Lodge isn’t just an event venue — it’s a destination where every detail is crafted for comfort and enjoyment. Whether you’re planning a wedding, family reunion or corporate retreat, the coordinators and event staff ensure a seamless experience. The lodge features a spacious two-level structure with a three-sided bar, catering area, lounge and full commercial kitchen, perfect for hosting memorable gatherings.

Experience Adventure — Trails, Lakes and Freedom

There are endless possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts — from ATV trails and snowmobiling in winter to boating and canoeing in summer. For those seeking relaxation, unwind in the lodge’s cozy entertainment rooms or enjoy the breathtaking views from our outdoor spaces.

Getting There

Located just three hours north of Minneapolis. Longville Municipal Airport or nearby regional airports in Brainerd and Bemidji.

Boy River, Minnesota

A FIELD MANUAL TO BUILDING

DUCK FACTS:

• L.A.’s rubber duck cost roughly $300,000 to build.

• The duck stood roughly 60 feet above the water line.

• Its estimated weight is 3,000 pounds.

• The duck does not have an engine. It is pulled by a tugboat.

• It takes about an hour to inflate using two blowers.

THE WORLD’S LARGEST RUBBER DUCK

By: TEDDY GRANT

Home can mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people. If I think hard about it and squint my eyes, the image of “home” in my mind is Mom and Dad standing at the front door of my birth home, each with arms open to welcome me home from school, or travel, or wherever I’d been doing who-knows-what. The long Minnesota welcome is followed by an even longer Midwest meal that starts with grace, ends with blueberry pie, and is loaded with potato salad and green-bean casserole in between.

As much as that single version of coming home is very rigid in my memory, there are variations of this concept. For example, I write this article from the Delta lounge at MSP International Airport. Anywhere I travel, Delta offers me a sense of “coming home” as I await my flight to or from my or someone else’s home. The “help yourself” buffet of cheese, meat and crackers is as constant as Mom’s potato salad. The person greeting me may not reach out with a big hug like Mom, but the sense of security and inclusion is as genuine.

In all my years of leaving and coming home, I’ve thought of one thing that gives people a universal sense of home: the yellow rubber duck. This simple child’s bathtub toy is present in cultures all over the world. Its familiar and safe undertone reminds most anyone of their childhood at home and with family.

One man brought this idea of the familiar rubber duck to a global scale. Florentijn Hofman is a Dutch artist originally from Rotterdam, Netherlands, who came up with the idea of magnifying a simple bathtub toy to a scale larger than life. After searching the globe for what he considered the perfect version of the yellow rubber toy, he settled on a design that came from a toy company in Hong Kong. His artistic concept is one that promotes the idea of a global community in which a rubber duck is a symbol that most any culture can recognize and relate to. A yellow rubber duck means the same to a child in Europe as it means to a child in South America or in Asia.

Since its first appearance in 2007, Hofman’s duck has made a name for itself all over the world. Following its debut in France, the duck appeared in Brazil, Japan, New Zealand, Japan again, Belgium, Australia, Hong Kong and more. It was not until September 2013 that Hofman’s duck made its way to the United States by way of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where it appeared as part of a citywide celebration. An estimated 1 million people came to see the duck, which stood at 45 feet tall.

Autumn 2024 marked the 10th anniversary of my journey to build the world’s largest rubber duck in Los Angeles, in which I had little help from incomplete plans written in Dutch, a significantly underfunded budget, and the endless distractions Southern California offers a young man whose curiosity is too easily scratched.

To celebrate this milestone, I have shared excerpts from my book, The Duck: A Field Manual to Building the World’s Largest Rubber Duck, which captures a version of the true story of my leaving “home” to build the world’s largest rubber duck in 2014.

There are many pieces required to build the world’s largest rubber duck. The first and most obvious is the big yellow duck. People often ask me what the duck is made of. I tell them it is very similar to a bouncy house found at a child’s birthday party, only it is much heavier and much more expensive. The yellow fabric itself weighs nearly a half ton and is shipped on a standard wood pallet in a tightly wound yellow ball from

its manufacturer in Ohio. This particular “inflatables” manufacturer can, and has, constructed pretty much any shape or animal imaginable out of heavy-duty vinyl-like fabric that can be inflated with air. Super Bowl logos, school mascots and now the world’s largest rubber duck are all examples of their work. The inflatable yellow fabric cost nearly $70,000 and took nearly two months to manufacture before arriving in L.A.

The second piece required to build the world’s largest rubber duck is a very heavy steel pontoon that, like the yellow fabric, must be custom built. Many people don’t understand this concept. The popular opinion is that the duck is just one single piece of plastic inflated and sealed just like a much smaller swimming pool toy. This is far from the truth. The pontoon diameter is roughly 50 feet wide and, when assembled, makes a perfect circle. Around the entire circumference is a 24-inch-wide tubular pontoon, which has been filled with compressed air and sealed. However, the pontoon is shipped in four separate identical pieces atop an extra-long flatbed trailer. The steel pontoon system alone weighed approximately one ton and was made at a steel fabrication shop in Irvine, California. This company typically makes heavy-duty structural members for large buildings but made an exception in the duck’s case. The pontoon cost approximately $75,000 and just over a month to fabricate.

The third and final component of the world’s largest rubber duck is a handful of miscellaneous parts that are required to bring everything together. This includes two industrial-sized blowers that are constantly running in order to keep the yellow duck fabric inflated, a gas generator and backup generator to power the blowers, large plastic garbage cans that act as ballasts when filled with water to help balance the inflated fabric during strong winds, numerous extension cords, a handful of miscellaneous tools, a few thousand feet of synthetic line to tie the edge of the yellow fabric to the steel pontoon, and lastly 100 or so 2-inch x 10-inch x 12-foot-long wood planks that are laid across the top of the steel pontoon to create a platform that is entirely enclosed by the inflated yellow fabric.

Standing inside the world’s largest rubber duck is like being inside a Gothic cathedral with a steeple that towers over you some 60 feet in the air. From inside the inflatable creature, the duck’s face looks like a kind of eerie jack-o’-lantern looking down on you. Both the giant duck and I will be on display for each of the hundreds of thousands of families who will patiently wait in line to enter the festival and catch a glimpse of the world’s largest rubber duck sandwiched between a handful of wooden tall ships. With over a billion-dollar annual operating budget, the Port of L.A. is dubbed “America’s Port.” This is where the story takes place. A story, based on true events, of how two friends from Minnesota embarked on a journey to build the world’s largest rubber duck.

My friend Kip is a former rock-and-roll producer whose hard edge is softened only with brown whiskey and who is perhaps chasing memories of his yesteryears while on tour with A-list rock bands. As his much more impressionable junior, I crave adventure, or at the very least a new horizon on which to watch the sunset, preferably over the Pacific Ocean. While in L.A., I discover a new life outside the only world I knew: the more modest Midwest United States. Snowdrifts are replaced by palm trees. Not only does it seem I fall in love with the City of Angels as I explore it from the sun-soaked seat of a 1985 California-red Mercedes Benz convertible, but I fall in love with a woman whose lipstick matches the same loud red hue. I would have never met this woman without leaving the world I knew in Minnesota. But it is a 60-foot-tall children’s bath toy that pushes me to my limit and perhaps a little beyond, all while under L.A.’s media microscope.

THRIVING BUSINESS WITH A NONPROFIT MISSION:

One of Minnesota’s First Social Enterprises Celebrates Its 60th Anniversary

John DuRand worked at a Catholic school in St. Paul for kids with disabilities in the 1960s. He did not like how the school’s jobs consisted mostly of busywork with low pay. So he started running it like a business, which led to the founding of Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI) in 1964.

DuRand’s principles were simple yet groundbreaking for the time. He believed that the best way to help a person with disabilities was to give them a meaningful job that paid well. By working dignified jobs, each person then had the opportunity to meet their full potential, to fail, to improve — to live with purpose.

John DuRand’s founding principles are still front and center at the social enterprise, with approximately half of its employees people with disabilities who are treated with respect and dignity. The MDI hiring mindset is simple, yet extraordinary: It focuses on a candidate’s abilities and strengths instead of their limitations. This philosophy has helped them become an inclusive business where people with and without disabilities work side by side each day to meet customer needs. The concept of “ability” is part of the fabric of MDI; in fact, their annual fundraising event is called the Ability Bash.

“BY WORKING DIGNIFIED JOBS, EACH PERSON THEN HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THEIR FULL POTENTIAL, TO FAIL, TO IMPROVE — TO LIVE WITH PURPOSE.”

DuRand did not view his model as charitable. He viewed it as a business creating jobs for capable employees.

What he didn’t know at the time was that this model — now called a social enterprise — would be emulated worldwide for decades to come. Guided by social objectives, a social enterprise does not exist to maximize profit as its primary goal like a regular business does; instead, all generated revenue funds the enterprise’s stated social cause. This is what sets it apart from similar organizations, like nonprofits. MDI’s revenue helps fund its social cause of empowering people with disabilities.

Today MDI has four manufacturing facilities across Minnesota. The company creates plastic containers and offers product assembly and packaging services for businesses of all sizes across the country.

MDI believes that people reach their full potential — and that communities are at their strongest — when everyone can earn their own income. Despite these clear benefits, more than 100,000 Minnesotans with disabilities who are ready to work have not been given a fair shot, while 50%–80% of people with disabilities are unemployed worldwide. MDI is working to change that by training other businesses in best practices for employing people with disabilities.

In 2024 MDI celebrated its 60th anniversary, and the organization is reflecting on John DuRand’s founding purpose. There is much work to be done in providing meaningful jobs for this valuable yet overlooked sector of our workforce. To learn how your organization can be part of the solution, visit MDI.org and start a conversation with them today.

A CONVERSATION WITH THREE EXCEPTIONAL YOUNG MINNESOTANS

KINDNESS IN THE CLASSROOM SCHOLARSHIP

NOMINATE A STUDENT WHO EXEMPLIFIES KINDNESS!

Do you have a young person in your life who stands out for the kindness they show toward others? Nominate them to receive a Lake and Company scholarship and tell their story in the magazine.

GET YOUR SCHOOL INVOLVED!

Kind Lips is more than a balm — it’s a movement.

This is an engaging and impactful program with lessons that are thoughtfully crafted to help students develop a strong sense of identity, self-love and kindness, and the program is easy for teachers to implement in their classrooms. Rooted in research and mapped to the CASEL Core Competencies, each of the eight lesson plans is aligned with best practices in social-emotional learning. By participating in this program, you’ll empower your students with essential life skills that foster a positive, compassionate classroom environment — together inspiring the next generation to embrace kindness and create a brighter future for all.

OUR MISUNDERSTOOD YOUTH

By: LEO WILENIUS

What is it about teenagers nowadays? They sleep half the day away and when they’re not in a refrigerator, they’re either talking on the phone or playing video games. It’s such a waste of time and they don’t seem to have a clue.

So how did I do? Well, you’ve probably heard similar comments on the supposed general decline of our youth. It’s a popular theme on social media. I’ve given it some thought and have come to believe that the critique of teens says more about a quirk of the group we call “adults” than it does about teenagers, and that quirk is in the form of stereotyping. And it’s been going on for a long, long time.

Following are quotes from senior generations through the ages that cast a very broad net in describing the state of young people. I’ve paraphrased them just a bit for the sake of brevity.

• The young think they know everything, and not only that, they’re confident in their ignorance. Aristotle, 4 B.C.

• Youth don’t recognize the need for practical things, but rather they squander their resources. Horace, 1 B.C.

• Many young people today are poisoned by dating, reading unworthy books and going to plays that have corrupted their otherwise promising futures. Enos Hitchcock, 1790

• The game of chess is spreading in popularity amongst our youth, revealing their inferior character and robbing them of outdoor exercise. Scientific American, 1858

• We dare anyone with eyes to deny that our young people today are thoughtless, rude and selfish. Hull Daily Mail, 1925

• There is likely no period in history in which our young people have so rejected our old traditions and instead gravitated to anything new. Portsmouth Evening News, 1936

• What distinguishes our youth from those before is they are living so well and complain so bitterly about it. Washington Post, 1993

My teen generation of the ’60s and ’70s received its share of static as well. We were labeled rebellious, our music trash, our clothing

outlandish and, God help us, our hair was too long. That may have been a fairly good assessment actually, except for the music slight.

For their part, many adults of my teen years were so concerned about these things that they failed to consider their own problems: women paid half that of men, people of color banned from many schools and restaurants, old white men holding most positions of authority, alcohol taking a heavy toll, as well as the Vietnam War, and domestic abuse largely considered a private matter not to be interfered with.

As these things were going on, unchecked pollution caused the oil-covered Cuyahoga River, among others, to catch fire — several times. Major cities choked in thick smog. Even the proud bald eagle was brought to its knees from ingesting toxins laid on the environment. These are often referred to as the “good old days” when life was better and kinder and happier.

Given this, we may want to consider our stereotyping ways. Many things are better now than they were, and I’m confident the future will continue to see improvements from today. It’s easy to lose sight of that if we label all politicians crooked and all major media outlets biased; and allow criminals to go unchecked, schools to be inept, police to be unfair, medical authorities to be unfit, big business to be evil or teenagers to be unhinged. Not only that, it discredits the multitudes of good works that rule in vast majority over whatever vices we have. But before going on, I must confess to one stereotype I will hold true to — the music of the ’60s and ’70s was superior to all others. There, I feel better now.

All I can say is that the teen years must be a special period in life, since each generation thinks back so longingly on them. It’s a time of joy and expectations and living life in the moment. A time to question, discover, err and learn. A time of boundless hope and ideals that makes today’s teens as capable of bringing about progress as any generation before them.

I know from experience that teens can be as goofy as they are wonderful and this, at times, can put them in a poor light. But if you think about it, they are setting an excellent example. One does better in having a sense of humor for getting along in this world. Thank you, teenagers! Sometimes we adults forget that. Peace and love from my generation to yours!

P.S. We’ll try to do better to “watch our own bobbers” in the future.

It’s a time of joy and expectations and living life in the moment. A time to question, discover, err and learn. A time of boundless hope and ideals that makes today’s teens as capable of bringing about progress as any generation before them.

A CONVERSATION WITH TAYLOR O’SHEA

UNSTOPPABLE SPIRIT

TAYLOR O’SHEA'S JOURNEY TO EMPOWERMENT AND CHANGE

As you travel west along Hwy. 2 in Northern Minnesota, you might easily overlook the quaint town of Deer River, population around 900. Yet this tight-knit community, rooted in strong traditions and unwavering support, is home to high school senior Taylor O’Shea. Having lived in Deer River her entire life, Taylor has developed a deep love for her hometown. Growing up in a wheelchair has not always been easy; she faced challenges related to a lack of acceptance and of knowledge about disabilities. These experiences fueled her determination to use her voice to bring awareness to the importance of inclusivity. From a young age, she has passionately championed awareness and diversity, and her unstoppable spirit radiates through all she does.

WHAT ARE SOME EXPERIENCES THAT HAVE SHAPED YOUR LIFE?

Several key moments have significantly shaped my life. One of my earliest influences was my involvement in the local youth program in Ball Club, Minnesota. This experience allowed me to engage with my community, visit exciting places and enjoy memorable activities.

A pivotal project for me was the playground build, where I took on roles as designer, advertiser and fundraiser. This initiative not only helped raise funds but also empowered me by demonstrating that I have a voice — one that others want to hear. It ignited my passion for change and advocacy.

My journey with my wheelchair has also driven me to promote understanding, awareness and inclusivity among young children. I believe fostering an inclusive environment starts with education and exposure.

Another transformative experience was participating in Fashion Week Minnesota’s Native Nations Fashion Night. There I had the opportunity to design and create outfits, and I even met Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. This event opened my eyes to the rich stories behind each outfit and deepened my appreciation for cultural expression.

Each of these experiences has shaped me into a passionate advocate for change, instilling in me the belief that everyone deserves a voice and a place in the community.

FROM WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION TO TRY NEW THINGS?

I draw a lot of my inspiration from social media, which exposes me to diverse perspectives and innovative ideas from people all around the world. Additionally, the individuals I’ve met throughout my journey have significantly influenced me. Their stories and experiences encourage me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new challenges. This blend of influences motivates me to continually seek out new opportunities for growth and discovery.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?

I am deeply motivated by my community and the people at my school. The many opportunities available to me, especially the chance to represent and advocate for others, drive my passion. Being a voice for the Minnesota Youth Council is particularly inspiring; it provides me with a platform to engage in meaningful discussions and make decisions that can positively impact my peers. Knowing that I can effect change and serve as a voice for those who may not have one fuels my determination to make a difference.

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR PASSION, DRIVE AND SUCCESS?

I attribute my passion, drive and success to my experiences growing up in a small community while using a wheelchair. I quickly realized that not everything is fair or accessible, and this motivated me to advocate for change from a young age. It frustrates me to see complacency in others — people who are OK with the status quo despite ongoing inequities. Recognizing these injustices fuels my determination to push for improvements and create a more inclusive environment. This inspiration drives me to work hard and make a meaningful impact.

WHO DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR MENTORS?

I immediately think of my aunt, Nashel Bebeau. She has always been a source of encouragement, actively seeking out opportunities for me to explore and to step outside my comfort zone. With just a seven-year age difference, our close relationship has allowed her to guide me in discovering my true self and embracing my individuality.

I also want to emphasize the importance of my friends, who play a crucial role in my support system. They provide camaraderie and encouragement as I navigate my journey. Together, these influences have shaped me into the passionate advocate I am today.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS?

One of my biggest accomplishments has been being appointed to the Minnesota Youth Council (MYC) and testifying for change at the State Capitol. This is significant because only four members can join from each congressional district, and I had to go through an extensive interview process to be accepted. Ultimately, only 32 students in Minnesota are selected. Now I can use my voice to advocate for positive change for youth interests at the state level.

The MYC is a group of young people advocating for youth interests across the state. It encourages civic participation and allows students to influence policies affecting their lives. Members work on initiatives, provide feedback on youth issues and collaborate with officials to drive change, empowering youth to shape their futures.

Recent focus areas include:

• Mental Health Awareness: Promoting better mental health resources in schools

• Education Equity: Ensuring all students have access to quality education

• Youth Engagement in Government: Enhancing youth involvement in decision-making

• Environmental Sustainability: Addressing climate change through supportive policies

• Diversity and Inclusion: Advocating for equity and inclusion for marginalized youth

DO YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF INFLUENTIAL, AND HOW DO YOU PLAN TO USE THAT INFLUENCE?

Yes, I do consider myself influential. I believe people look up to me and listen to my voice. My goal is to give back to the community and encourage others by saying, “You can do this; people will listen to you.” Although some may have underestimated me at times, I’ve worked hard to prove them wrong and overcome obstacles. People in my community and beyond see me as a leader, and I plan to use my influence to keep others informed and ensure youth are represented at the decision-making table.

A CONVERSATION WITH JACK ALLEN GRADDY

PUSHING THE LIMITS

WHAT’S YOUR NAME AND WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?

Jack Allen Graddy. I moved to Minnesota near Duluth when I was going into third grade. I had lived many places before Duluth as my dad was in the Air Force, which had us moving around every three years or so.

WHAT ARE SOME EXPERIENCES THAT HAVE SHAPED YOUR LIFE?

Definitely moving around and learning how to adapt and grow in any situation that I was put into.

WHAT DRAWS YOU TO SURFING?

Everything, really. It is absolute serenity and chaos at the same time. I’ve never experienced anything like it. It completely consumes me every time I paddle out into a swell. I can hear the cacophony of waves crashing down all around me, yet I’m at one with it and everything feels still. There is no other experience close to the feeling of becoming at one with the power of a wave. Completely surrendering myself to the lake’s will while having full control over myself and where I want to go.

It is absolute serenity and chaos at the same time.

HAVE YOU SURFED ANYWHERE ELSE? WHAT MAKES SURFING ON LAKE SUPERIOR SPECIAL?

Yeah, I first got up on a wave in San Diego and immediately fell in love. When I got back home to Duluth, I was desperate to find a way to get out and relive that thrill. When I found out that people surf on the lake in my hometown, I was immediately hooked. My parents were very hesitant, as you can imagine, but eventually they allowed me to give it a try. Session after session I failed and failed, until finally I was able to get up on some waves. It was amazing and it was perfect.

I’ve also recently taken a surf trip to Australia, and it was amazing as well. But, as much as I loved it, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I belonged to the big lake. There’s nothing even remotely close to the feeling of the Great Lake’s bone-chilling surge of pure energy flowing through my body as I take off on a wave. The ice-cold water pumps adrenaline through my body and gives me the perfect balance of power and serenity. Lake Superior’s surf is the perfect storm.

WHAT ARE TWO WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU?

Adaptable. Ever since I was a child, I have always had the mindset of conquering or changing whatever problem or circumstance I’m put into.

Venturous. I am always up for whatever challenge I can find for myself and am never satisfied with being in my comfort zone.

WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH THE INFLUENCE YOU’VE EARNED?

I want to use all my talents and resources to get other young people to step out of their comfort zone and take on whatever they want to do. Everyone has a voice and a set of skills that should all be pushed to their limits.

FROM WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION TO TRY NEW THINGS?

I’m a firm believer in living life to the absolute fullest. If someone thinks I’m crazy for doing something, then I know I’m doing it right. Getting out of my comfort zone is always the first step toward being fulfilled in my life. I simply wouldn’t be happy with myself if I didn’t push myself to my limits and achieve something every day.

A CONVERSATION WITH KAIYA GROSSMAN FROM THE

Ashes

A YOUNG GIRL’S RISE FROM POVERTY TO PROMISE

MY VISION FOR THE FUTURE IS A CONSTANT SOURCE OF INSPIRATION

Kaiya Grossman, a young girl from rural Minnesota, transformed her challenging upbringing into a story of hope and achievement. Growing up in a broken home with financial struggles, Kaiya could be defined by her hardships. Instead, she channels her difficulties into a powerful drive to succeed and has emerged as a beacon of resilience and determination.

Today, Kaiya stands as the state FFA secretary for Minnesota, a role she embraces to inspire change, promote leadership, and foster a brighter future for agriculture and society. Her mission is to make the most of every day, every interaction, and every opportunity to spread positivity and create a lasting impact.

Kaiya’s journey from adversity to leadership is a powerful example of how challenges can fuel ambition and lead to extraordinary achievements. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the potential for greatness that lies within us all.

Join us in celebrating Kaiya and her remarkable rise from difficult beginnings to become a symbol of hope and achievement.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?

One of the driving forces that motivates me is the belief that everything I have experienced has a purpose and has helped shape me into the person I am today. This perspective allows me to find meaning in life’s adversities and to remain hopeful for the future. Thinking about all that I have endured and overcome fuels me with a sense of strength and determination to continue pushing forward. Moreover, my vision for the future is a constant source of inspiration. I am excited about the potential and opportunities that lie ahead, and I am driven by the idea of achieving my goals and making a positive impact in the world. I draw strength from the progress I have made thus far and the foundation I have built for future success. This anticipation of what the future holds propels me forward and instills in me a sense of purpose and motivation to strive for excellence in all aspects of my life.

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR PASSION, DRIVE AND SUCCESS?

Growing up with financial struggles, I witnessed my parents juggling multiple jobs and realized I wanted a different path. My academic focus began as a way to ease my parents’ worries, evolving into a genuine passion for learning and personal growth. The challenges I faced instilled resilience, determination and empathy, shaping me into someone driven to make a positive impact. Adversity has fueled my ambition, and I am grateful for these experiences as I pursue my dreams.

WHO DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR PROFESSIONAL MENTORS?

While I’ve always prided myself on being independent, my FFA advisor, Shawn Linder, has significantly shaped my journey. In my sophomore year, Shawn encouraged me to join FFA, and his mentorship has been transformative. His support has pushed me to embrace challenges, aim higher and seek guidance. I credit much of my growth to Shawn’s belief in my potential and will always be grateful for his role in helping me achieve my goals.

A REMARKABLE JOURNEY

Kaiya’s path from a childhood marked by financial struggle to becoming the state FFA secretary is a remarkable journey of triumph over adversity. Her story is a powerful example of how determination and a clear vision can lead to extraordinary achievements. As she takes on this new role, Kaiya is set to inspire future generations through her commitment to leadership, her passion for agriculture and her drive for positive change. Her accomplishments reflect the potential within us all to rise above our circumstances and work toward a brighter, more hopeful future. Way to go, Kaiya!

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS TO DATE?

Being elected as the state FFA secretary in Minnesota is a significant personal achievement and opens up new opportunities to impact over 15,800 FFA members and over 40,000 students. My role involves representing the national FFA organization, collaborating with leaders to promote leadership and agriculture education, and inspiring future agricultural leaders. I was elected after an 18-hour interview process for this one-year role, which allows me to contribute to FFA’s growth and work toward a sustainable future for agriculture.

WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE FUTURE?

My future aspirations are shaped by the experiences and opportunities I’ve had in FFA and beyond. My work with the Minnesota United Student Coalition and a legislative proposal on mental health ignited my passion for political science and the legislative process. I will major in political science at the University of North Dakota to delve into policy and advocacy, while also majoring in business for a well-rounded foundation. I’m excited to continue with FFA, which has shaped my leadership and passion for agriculture and community development. I envision myself engaging in political and social issues, advocating for change, and using my education to contribute to society and promote progress.

Nature’s Rhythm

WISDOM THROUGH SEASONS OF SAGITTARIUS AND CAPRICORN

BY: ASHLEY BELLA

As the lakes freeze over and the once vibrant landscapes of northern Minnesota fall into quiet stillness, we find ourselves on the cusp of winter. The long days of sunlight fade, replaced by shorter, darker hours — inviting both nature and humanity to slow down and retreat inward. In this quietude, there is a beauty in stillness, a powerful pause that allows life to regenerate beneath the surface.

Frozen lakes beautifully symbolize this season of stillness and transition. While the water’s surface becomes solid and unmoving, deep below life continues, unseen but thriving. This natural pause teaches us that winter is not a time of stagnation but of preparation and inner growth. Just as nature embraces this dormant phase, astrology mirrors this stillness, offering us guidance on how to navigate the colder, quieter months.

As we journey through the astrological signs of late fall into winter — Sagittarius and Capricorn — we are invited to connect with the deeper cycles of life, much like the lakes. These signs guide us in adapting to the rhythm of shorter days and longer nights, helping us find balance between introspection and action.

Sagittarius Season (November 21–December 21): EMBRACING ADVENTURE AND EXPLORATION

As the frozen lakes and snow-covered landscapes of Minnesota fully settle into winter, a new energy begins to take hold. Sagittarius season arrives like a breath of fresh, crisp air, replacing the introspection of Scorpio with a spirit of adventure and optimism. This fire sign inspires us to pursue our passions and broaden our horizons, while the winter scenery beckons us to discover its vast beauty and endless opportunities for exploration.

It’s a perfect time to break away from the mundane and seek new experiences that foster joy, growth and expansion. The infectious optimism of Sagittarius encourages us to say “yes” to adventure, to look past the chill and darkness of winter, uncovering the thrill that comes with trying something new, whether it’s an outdoor pursuit or a personal endeavor.

HOW TO CONNECT TO SAGITTARIUS SEASON:

Outdoor Adventure Awaits: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and cruising through the expansive forests on a snowmobile are just some of the ways Sagittarius can satisfy their need for physical movement and exploration. These activities allow you to immerse yourself in the winter landscape, discovering the quiet beauty of the season while getting your heart pumping.

Ice Fishing as a Social and Adventurous Experience: In Sagittarius season, we welcome a good social adventure. Gather friends or family, set up ice houses on frozen lakes, and enjoy the camaraderie and exploration of new fishing spots. The wide-open spaces of Minnesota’s lakes provide the perfect backdrop for the free-spirited energy of Sagittarius.

Capricorn Season (December 22–January 19):

BUILDING STRENGTH AND FOUNDATIONS

Capricorn season begins with the winter solstice, marking the official arrival of winter — characterized by short days, long nights and a cold, still atmosphere. However, beneath this stark exterior lies the powerful energy of resilience, determination and quiet preparation. Capricorn embodies discipline and hard work, but there is also a profound sense of empowerment during this time. We are reminded that the days will gradually lengthen, and there is immense comfort in our dedication to our aspirations — whether they pertain to our careers, personal lives or inner growth — knowing that they will eventually bear fruit.

Though Nature seems dormant in the depths of winter, she is silently gearing up for the next phase of growth. The trees stand tall, their roots anchored deep in the frozen earth, conserving energy for the forthcoming spring bloom. Similarly, Capricorn season inspires us to establish a solid foundation, steadily advance toward our long-term objectives and embrace the quiet focus required for the journey ahead. This time of year brings a sense of calm and clarity, encouraging us to slow down and set intentions for the future.

HOW TO CONNECT TO CAPRICORN SEASON:

Planning and Goal Setting for the Year Ahead: Capricorn is all about long-term vision and discipline. Use this season to sit down and map out your goals for the year ahead. Whether it’s career ambitions, personal growth or future travel plans, Capricorn energy encourages you to create a solid plan of action. As Minnesotans, we can celebrate the quieter winter evenings indoors, perhaps in a cozy cabin or by the fire, reflecting on our ambitions and setting realistic, achievable goals for the coming months.

Appreciating the Stillness of Winter: Capricorn teaches us to embrace the beauty in simplicity and stillness. Take time to appreciate the quiet moments that winter offers, watching the snowfall from a warm window or enjoying the silence of a frozen lake at dawn. Spending time outdoors ice skating, snowshoeing or simply walking through the snow-covered woods brings moments of connection with Nature and can be grounding and inspiring during this season. Capricorn finds strength in these moments of solitude and reflection, knowing that they provide the foundation for future growth.

EMBRACING WINTER’S RHYTHMS FOR PERSONAL GROWTH

As we journey through the heart of winter, from the adventurous spirit of Sagittarius into the disciplined strength of Capricorn, we see how astrology offers us a road map for navigating the seasonal changes that shape our lives. Each sign, like each phase of winter, brings its own unique energy, teaching us to honor the transformations happening both around us in nature and within ourselves.

As you move through the winter season, I encourage you to take moments to pause, reflect and explore both nature and your inner self. Use astrology to guide you, but remember that the true teachings are all around you — in the frozen lakes, the snow-covered forests and the community that surrounds you. Winter is not just something to get through, but a powerful season for growth, connection and preparation for the brighter days ahead.

MARKETPLACE

As the seasons change, so does our gear. Living in the Midwest means that all four seasons are welcomed – and it’s necessary to have the right products to experience the shift. Here at Lake and Company we’ve picked some of the best: local goods, carry-all packs and must-have accessories fit for your everyday adventures.

STARFISH PROJECT

Give Hope Necklace

Starfish Project began in 2006 with a small group of friends compelled to act against the exploitation of women and girls in Asia. Inspired by “The Starfish Parable,” they embarked on a mission to rescue and empower survivors through jewelry. Each piece, like the symbolic Give Hope necklace featuring iridescent mother-of-pearl and 14K plated gold, symbolizes not just elegance but a profound journey of restoration and hope, aiming to transform lives affected by exploitation, one woman at a time.

starfishproject.com @starfish_project

MUST BE MINNESOTA

The Signature Jacket

Must Be™ was started in 2010 in Duluth, MN. What started as a couple hats for the homies, quickly evolved into a fully-fledged brand. A little skate, a little snow, a little streetwear, and a whole lot of sarcasm; Must Be™ specializes in quality goods produced in extremely limited quantities. At the end of the day, it's for the homies. Our Signature Jacket is a fully custommade, cut-and-sewn coaches jacket. This jacket is the product of months of refinement and sampling. I wanted to build a coat that is timeless, durable, and built for the streets. I kept it minimally branded and let the fabrics do the talking. We worked hard on this jacket, and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

mustbeminnesota.com @mustbeminnesota

SCENTRALZONE Shower Steamers

Scentral Zone is a women owned and run company in Edina, Minnesota. As a small, Midwestern company, we are committed to wellness and dedicated to discovering innovative and convenient ways to experience the benefits of essential oils in products that range from aromatherapeutic to natural skincare. Our all natural shower steamers last up to 20 minutes in your shower, releasing the aroma of relaxing lavender and rosemary. Add these shower tablets to your nightly ritual to destress, encourage a good night’s sleep and quiet the mind.

scentralzone.com @scentralzone

FREE RANGE EQUIPMENT

Mt. Hood - Sheila Dunn

Free Range Equipment began in 2011 with Tosch crafting sport-spe cific backpacks, and grew into a sibling duo when Zoë brought a fusion of artistry to shape the brand. This Canvas Series is a Free Range collaboration with artists who live to get lost in the moun tains. A portion of each sale goes directly back to the artist who painted/illustrated/imagined your print. This piece was painted by Sheila Dunn, who was born and raised in the foothills of northern Colorado and now lives and works in the picturesque town of Bend, Oregon. This original piece was painted with oils on canvas & is part of her Conservation Series. This view of the iconic PNW peak is taken from Trillium Lake.

freerangeequipment.com

@freerangeequipment

NOSASOTA At the Resort

The name NosaSota comes from Pinus resinosa (red or Norway pine) — Minnesota’s state tree. NosaSota & Co. emerged in March 2020 amid global uncertainty, driven by a mission to spread light through candles and give back to nature and the community. Our newest fragrance, At the Resort, will take you back to a walk on the beach at one of Minnesota’s beautiful northern resorts, with a seductive combination of tobacco leaf and sandalwood.

nosasota.co @nosasota

COLORING CONTEST

Find your inner artist (young or young at heart) and apply color to paper for a chance to WIN!

SPLIT ROCK LIGHTHOUSE

Built in 1910, Split Rock Lighthouse was a response to numerous shipwrecks in Lake Superior, particularly the devastating Mataafa Storm of 1905 that claimed nearly 30 vessels. The Lighthouse guided ships safely through the challenging waters for over a century. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, Split Rock Lighthouse was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2011.

LIFE LESSONS ON AND OFF THE FIELD

By: BETH PROBST

Let’s talk football for a minute. I think there are two important things to highlight here — I know very little about football and I was crushing on Travis Kelce before Taylor Swift knew he existed. Sure, I love a good Swift song, but I don’t qualify as a Swiftie. I digress. Back to the game.

I love watching football with my son. In addition to a fun time talking smack to each other (we inevitably cheer for opposite teams because that’s what moms and sons do), it is an opportunity to instill life lessons. Yep, I’m that mom. Constantly looking for subtle or not so subtle opportunities to expose my son to lessons I wish I had known back in the day.

Everyone loves an underdog. There’s something about watching people put everything on the line — only to come up short. After all, isn’t that what life is about? To pursue something wholeheartedly knowing there is a very good chance it won’t work out? That you may find yourself congratulating someone equally as passionate as you for grabbing your dream right out of your hands? Marketing wiz Simon Sinek once said, “To succeed takes more than the desire to win. It also takes the acceptance we could fail.”

So true in life. But even more so in football. Rarely is it as finite as the Super Bowl — where success is measured in yards, completed passes and the ability to knock your opponent down, only to give him a hand to help him up, knowing that when the next ball snaps, he’s coming for you. Where your worth is measured in individual plays and your collective ability to win. Where speculations come from the experts, who analyze your every move and draw conclusions about you from the comfort and safety of the sidelines. Where distractions like halftime performances, fans and overly produced commercials consume every second of downtime.

Then it’s over. Just like that. There are clear winners and losers. Or are there? It is unlikely the 22 players on the field will ever experience such extraordinary highs and lows again in their lifetime. But these moments will become memories they will cherish for a lifetime. Long after the commentators are done speculating and rehashing every player’s move, after the commercials are retired to a YouTube vault, and after the trophy is tucked away in a case, the players will still relish the magic of the moment.

I quit sports in middle school. But my competitive spirit lives on. I vividly remember the elbows thrown, the high fives, the unlikely sound of a swoosh as a Hail Mary shot goes in the hoop, and the bitter taste of disappointment when discovering your best wasn’t good enough to win. The decision to quit when it no longer served me. But now I experience joy in talking smack and shooting hoops with my son. It might not be the Super Bowl, but as a mama who struggled to get pregnant for years, I feel like a champion.

It makes sense. As Sinek summed it up: “No one likes to lose, and most healthy people live their life to win. The only variation is the score we use. The metric is relative, but the desire is the same.”

The great thing about life, unlike football, is that you get to choose your method of scoring. Do you measure success by your bank account or your memory bank? By your status in society or your integrity? Do you pursue the life you want or the life others want for you? Are you the player who knocks others down to get what you want or pulls others up with you? Keeping score isn’t nearly as important as knowing what makes up your scorecard. As my son grows older, I hope he knows and understands that. It is a lesson that took me far too long to learn, only to realize I needed to relearn it again many, many times on and off the field.

If you are interested in reading more random articles about parenting struggles and the pursuit of living an extraordinarily ordinary life, check out my website, bethprobst.com, where you can sign up for my newsletter and read more of my ramblings about rural living.

A DAY RANCH ON THE

EVERYDAY WEAR FOR THE BOLD AND ADVENTUROUS

Photography: MEGAN KELLIN

The sun was already cresting the horizon, painting the vast plains of the ranch in a golden glow, when we pulled up to the gorgeous Steamboat Valley Ranch. The crisp morning air carried the familiar scent of hay and cattle, which had been woven into the fabric of life since one could remember. Today, like every other day on the ranch, would be a dance with the land, a rhythm of tending to the herd, mending fences and listening to the quiet whispers of the prairie.

We rolled in in an Escape Campervan and knew this was going to be an adventure. The day was filled with chores and good conversation, and we were able to sport our apparel from Lake and Company while we were at it.

As we took long, snowy rides through the pasture, checking on the grazing horses, the vastness of the land was a humbling reminder of their interdependence with nature. Sometimes, during the quiet moments of helping with tasks, we would gaze out at the horizon, thinking about the legacy this place will create, the people who had built the ranch from scratch, and the responsibility that weighed on each person who lives there to keep it thriving.

Like the legacy, their apparel evolved. As the seasons changed, so did the rhythm of work. The ranch was more than just a place of work; it was a living, breathing entity that shapes life, values and a sense of belonging. It’s a life of hard work, resilience and a deep connection to the natural world, a legacy to be proud of and to be honored to carry on, one sunrise and sunset at a time.

OUTERKNOWN

The Tides Trucker Jean Jacket

JETTY Hull Jacket

KAVU Pocatello Overalls

SCARPA Hiking Boots

KETSOL Trout Hat and Coffee Mug

KETSOL Eagle Hat

DESO Jacket

DESO Vest

DUDE

The first thing that hits you is the raw, natural beauty of the area. The colors are so vibrant and alive! You’ve got the lush greenery of the trees and sage, the rich oranges and reds of the dirt and rock formations, and the bright-blue skies that seem to stretch on forever. All these elements blend together to create one of the most visually stunning trips you are likely to take.

Lazy L&B Ranch is a world-class guest ranch nestled in the heart of Wyoming. From the serene landscapes to the warm hospitality, everything about this place just screams adventure and relaxation at the same time. One of the highlights of the trip was the horseback riding. There’s something incredibly freeing about riding through those expansive fields, with nothing but the sounds of nature around you. The views are breathtaking and endless. It’s like stepping into a postcard.

The accommodations are cozy and comfortable, providing the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern convenience. Each cabin has its own unique character, and waking up to the sight of the sun rising over those stunning landscapes is an experience you won’t soon forget.

So if you’re looking for a place to unwind, reconnect with nature and have an unforgettable adventure, make Lazy L&B Ranch your next vacation. Whether you’re into horseback riding, hiking, fishing or just taking in the stunning scenery, this place has something for you.

LAZY L&B RANCH

Dubois, WY

RANCH

NINE QUARTER CIRCLE RANCH

Gallatin Gateway, MT

If you’re looking for the ultimate Western getaway, welcome to Nine Quarter Circle Ranch. Nestled in Gallatin Gateway, Montana, this hidden gem is just minutes from Yellowstone National Park. The ranch is run by the Kelsey family, who offer an authentic Western experience. From the moment you arrive, you can see the passion and dedication they pour into every detail.

WESTERN PLEASURE GUEST RANCH

Sandpoint, ID

DROWSY WATER RANCH

Granby, CO

Rolling hills, clear skies and the smell of fresh pine. Drowsy Water Ranch isn’t just a place; it’s an experience. There’s something magical about watching the sun rise over the Rockies while horses graze peacefully in the distance. Whether you seek hiking, fishing or simply lounging by the campfire under a blanket of stars, put this on the bucket list.

This guest ranch in northern Idaho is surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes as well as cozy log cabins, friendly faces and a sense of peace that’s hard to find these days. Go horseback riding through the lush green meadows. Or take in the sunset as it paints the sky in hues of pink and orange.

RAWAH RANCH

Glendevey, CO

This place is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Rawah Wilderness Area. Imagine sprawling greenery as far as the eye can see, lush pine forests that seem to touch the sky and waterfalls that crash down with an energy that’s almost primal. Whether you’re into horseback riding or trout fishing, Rawah Ranch delivers in spades.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

A place where the Old West meets modern luxury.

By: BUFFALO AND COMPANY

anque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, nature and comfort. This isn’t just any ranch — it’s a slice of history dating back to 1868. Imagine walking through buildings that have stood the test of time, each with its own story to tell.

You wake up in the heart of the Sonoran Desert with the majestic Rincon Mountains on one side and the sprawling Saguaro National Park on the other. The scenery here is nothing short of breathtaking. It’s like stepping into a time machine but with all the comforts of the 21st century. The ranch spans over 640 acres of jaw-dropping desert landscape and

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

HORSEBACK RIDING:

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete newbie, horseback riding here is an absolute must. The ranch offers lessons for beginners and challenging trails for experienced riders.

MOUNTAIN BIKING:

Grab a mountain bike and hit the rugged trails for a thrilling ride. The terrain here is perfect for both casual rides and more intense biking adventures.

FISHING:

If you’re looking for something more laid back, cast a line in one of the ranch’s fishing spots. The peaceful environment is perfect for unwinding and enjoying some quiet time.

HIKING:

The trails here weave through some of the most stunning desert scenery you’ll ever see. Each path offers a unique perspective of the landscape. And believe us, every step is worth it.

SPA:

After a day of adventure, unwind at their La Sonora Spa.

offers a mix of comfy accommodations that cater to both rustic adventurers and luxury seekers. Whether you prefer a more rugged experience or a plush retreat, there’s something here for everyone. Think cozy casitas with authentic Southwestern decor and views that will take your breath away every single morning.

One thing that stands out above all is the sense of community. Meals here are a big deal, with guests gathering together to share stories and delicious cuisine. The food is fantastic, and the company is even better. It’s a great way to meet new friends and truly feel part of the ranch life. The sense of camaraderie here is something special.

hygge [hue-ga] noun

An atmosphere of warmth, wellbeing and cosiness, when you feel at peace & able to enjoy simple pleasures and being in the moment.

Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts is an environment that nurtures relaxation and peace of mind. Enjoy stunning lake views, upscale lodging accommodations and unlimited access to the very best of Minnesota’s North Shore.

Discover unforgettable outdoor activities and adventures, with complimentary outdoor equipment. Relax in our signature outdoor heated pool and hot tub overlooking Lake Superior, take a stroll along the moonlit lake, surrender to the healing powers of our spa and indulge in regionally inspired cuisine.

If you’re searching for relaxation and romance, look no further.

After a day of winter wonder, Pier B invites you to sink into our outdoor hot tub while taking in the harbor view. Sip on a warm beverage under a blanket at our fire pits. Rest in the engulfing steam of a wood-fired sauna. Enjoy the quieter moments in life. Become serene.

Duluth, MN